President William Ruto has mourned the death of Makadara Law Courts Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti.
In a statement on Monday, June 17, the president condemned any sort of confrontation, threats or attacks on judicial officers.
He directed the police force to ensure safety of judicial officers at all times as they discharge their duties. Ruto explained that any form of violence against judges and magistrates is unacceptable, criminal and an affront to the rule of law.
“I join the family, friends and the judicial fraternity in mourning the tragic death of Honorable Monica Kivuti who was serving as the Principal Magistrate of the Makadara Courts,” he said.
“What happened to Hon. Kivuti is unacceptable; it should never happen again. I ask the police to ensure the safety of our judicial officers at all times as they discharge their duties.”
Ruto Asks Police to Heighten Security After Minica Kivuti Death
He stated that the Police exists to assure Kenyans of reliable security including judicial officers and warned them against using their powers and weapons to intimidate or threaten Kenyans.
“Under no circumstances should they abandon this essential obligation or ever turn from their duty of protection and become threats to the safety and security of the people,” Ruto said.
Also Read: LSK Declares Stance After Judges Suspend Services Protesting Magistrate Kivuti Killing
Additionally, Ruto said the judiciary has lost a productive officer who still had a lot to offer to the people.
‘We have lost a firm and hardworking judicial professional who served Kenyans with dedication. I pray that the Almighty God grants you strength to bear this loss, and comfort you with divine solace,” the president said.
Monica Kivuti was shot in the chest and left hip by OCS Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto of Londiani police station, during a court session on Thursday, June 13 and later pronounced dead on Saturday, June 15.
Judiciary Issues Directives
Following her death, Chief Justice Martha Koome announced that Tuesday, June 18, will be a day of mourning for the entire Judiciary.
“Tuesday, 18th June 2024 is declared as a day of mourning for the entire Judiciary in solidarity with Hon Kivuti’s family, friends, and colleagues as well as all Judges, Judicial Officers and Staff who have been deeply affected by this tragedy,” Koome said.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) also postponed the interviews for the position of Judge of the Court of Appeal scheduled for 18th-21st June 2024.
Also Read: Monica Kivuti Death: Nelson Havi Lists 4 Ways CJ Koome Can Protect Judges Without Police
Elsewhere, Kenya Judges and Magistrates Association (KJMA) announced on Sunday, June 16, that they would abandon work from June 19 to June 21 to demand a better working environment.
KJMA President Stephen Radido said on Sunday June 16 that upon their return to work, they want several safety measures implemented, including the prohibition of firearms in courtrooms unless sanctioned by the courts.
He also stated that members of the KMJA and the KJSA (Kenya Judiciary Staff Association) shall not conduct any Judicial Proceedings in the open air whether under a tent, container, any makeshift structure or otherwise.
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