The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has responded to the Law Society of Kenya's (LSK) ongoing boycott of certain judicial officers by defending its record on judicial accountability and cautioning against actions that could disrupt justice delivery.
In a statement following discussions with LSK leaders and the Senior Counsel Bar, the JSC disclosed that it has received 506 complaints against judges and judicial officers so far this year. Of these, 417 have been processed, with the remainder at various stages of disciplinary review.
Judicial Accountability Efforts
- Since 2011, the JSC has recommended removal of 10 judges, with four successfully removed after constitutional tribunal investigations.
- The commission is preparing to publish individual performance data for judges and judicial officers for the first time, pending outcomes of ongoing court challenges.
- Latest court performance scores show the Supreme Court leading with 96.3%, followed by Kadhi Courts at 95.41%, Magistrates' Courts at 87.12%, and Small Claims Courts at 82.34%.
Concerns Over Lawyers' Boycott
The JSC expressed concern that the LSK's targeted boycott could hinder court operations, delay case resolutions, inconvenience litigants, and infringe on constitutional rights to fair and timely justice.
Despite differences, the commission reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the LSK in fighting corruption and unethical conduct within the judiciary and legal profession.
Commitment to Justice
Chief Justice and JSC Chairperson Martha Koome urged judicial officers to maintain professionalism and assured them of the commission’s support. She emphasized the judiciary’s dedication to delivering impartial and people-centred justice to all Kenyans.
