Kenya’s Derrick Kuto joins Chief Justice, LSK in rebuking states decision to withdraw judge’s security

Former KMJA President Derrick Kuto also condemned the withdrawal as disturbing and alarming

The Law Society of Kenya has condemned the move by the National Police Service to withdraw security details of a sitting High Court Judge, Justice Lawrence Mugambi days after convicting and sentencing Acting Police IG Gilbert Masengeli for contempt of Court.

LSK while addressing the media at Milimani Law Courts said that the Legal body is at the forefront of upholding the principles of Justice, accountability, and the rule of Law.

“It is our solemn duty to address the disturbing developments surrounding Hon.Mr.Justice Lawrence Mugambi, a sitting Judge of the High Court whose security details were recently withdrawn following his issuance of a habeas corpus order in a case of LSK and 3 others versus the Inspector general of police…where the Acting Inspector general was found in contempt and sentenced on September 13, 2024…” said the LSK.

Former KMJA President Derrick Kuto also condemned the withdrawal as disturbing and alarming.

”It’s disturbing to learn of the withdrawal of security for our brother, Hon. Mr. Justice Mugambi. This is meant to intimidate the good Judge and by extension all Judges and Judicial officers. In one voice, we condemn this wrong move by the National Police Service. Our security is paramount and we should not take this lightly,” Kuto said.

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According to the LSK, the action by the National Police Service constitutes a violation of the rule of Law and the Principle of Judicial Independence.

“The LSK strongly condemns this retaliatory measure, which undermines not only the authority of the Judiciary but also the constitutional protections granted to all Kenyans.” says the LSK press statement.

The LSK urged the National Police Service and the relevant state actors to immediately reinstate the security details of Justice Mugambi and comply with all court orders including the habeas corpus directive.