The Senior Counsel Bar (SCB), spearheaded by the esteemed lawyer Fred Ojiambo, has condemned the recent withdrawal of security detail from Judge Lawrence Mugambi.
The SCB, known for its influential voice in Kenya’s legal community, described the action as more than an administrative decision—it’s a direct assault on judicial independence.
The controversy erupted following Judge Mugambi’s ruling in a critical case involving allegations of extra-judicial detentions by the National Police Service.
On September 13, 2024, Mugambi issued a contempt ruling against the Acting Inspector General of Police for failing to comply with a habeas corpus order
The decision, aimed at securing the release of three detained youths, drew significant attention and controversy.
In a move perceived as retaliatory, the National Police Service withdrew the security detail assigned to Judge Mugambi over the weekend.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) swiftly condemned this action, labeling it as an attempt to intimidate and undermine the judiciary’s authority.
Fred Ojiambo, addressing the SCB’s position, emphasized the gravity of the situation
“The withdrawal of Judge Mugambi’s security is not a mere administrative oversight but a deliberate effort to erode judicial independence,” Ojiambo stated.
“Such actions threaten the integrity of our legal system and send a dangerous message that opposing powerful entities could result in retaliation.”
The SCB called for the immediate restoration of Judge Mugambi’s security and urged all state actors to respect judicial decisions.
