Chief Justice Martha Koome has condemned the destruction of court infrastructure during the nationwide protests held on June 25th.
Speaking at the Kikuyu Law Courts, that was burned down during the Wednesday protests, CJ Koome termed the act as a direct attack on the constitution and the rule of law.
The protests, which were to commemorate lives lost during the 2024 anti- finance bill protests , saw several court buildings vandalized.
According to situational reports by the Judiciary Police Unit, the most severe damage occurred at the Kikuyu Law Courts, which were completely vandalized.
The newly established Dagoretti Law Courts and the old Ol Kalou Law Courts, currently used for storing exhibits, were also damaged.
“These attacks are an affront to the Constitution and the rule of law. They compromise the Judiciary’s ability to deliver justice, disrupt the administration of justice for ordinary Kenyans, and undermine our ongoing efforts to expand access to justice,” said Justice Koome.
She emphasized that while Article 37 of the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, and picket, this right must be exercised peacefully.
“It does not extend to acts that cause harm, destroy property, or endanger lives. Lawful protest must be distinguished from acts of violence and criminality,” she noted.
The Chief Justice underscored the difficulty and cost involved in establishing court infrastructure in Kenya, highlighting that the destruction of these facilities rolls back gains made in promoting justice access, especially for marginalized communities.
Justice Koome assured the public that the Judiciary is working closely with security agencies to safeguard court buildings and ensure the safety of judicial staff. She reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and delivering justice without interruption, even during turbulent times.
“To the communities and court users in the affected areas, I assure you that we are working tirelessly to restore services and ensure continued access to justice,” she said.