Vetting of judges will be fair, says Kibaki

President Kibaki has said the Kenyan Government will ensure that the vetting of judges and magistrates is fair.

In a meeting with members of the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board at Harambee House office Wednesday, the President assured the Board of his support.

He directed the Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs to facilitate the smooth operations of the Board.

"We will accord you all the support that is required to make the process smooth and credible,” said President Kibaki.

The Board's chairman Sharad Rao said his team will strive to give Kenyans a Judiciary that is beyond reproach.

Mr Rao emphasised that the vetting process will be fair and transparent saying judges will be treated with respect and dignity throughout the process.

"We will follow the rule of natural justice to its fullness."

Justice minister Mutula Kilonzo said his Ministry is working towards ensuring that the judgements delivered by the Judiciary are internationally respected.

The Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board was established by the Vetting of Judges and Magistrates Act 2011 that received Presidential assent on 21 March 2011.

The function of the board is to vet judges and magistrates who were in office on August 27, 2011 to determine their suitability to continue in office. It is made up of nine members: Six Kenyans, one Ghanaian, a South African and a Zambian.

Also present during the meeting were Attorney-General Githu Muigai and Head of Public Service Francis Muthaura.