Mutunga sued over judiciary job

Chief Justice Willy Mutunga has been sued for allegedly appointing Mr Duncan Okello as the Chief of Staff in the office of the Chief Justice without following the laid down procedure.

Mr Joseph Wamiti Thiiya, claims that Dr Mutunga usurped the functions of the Judicial Service Commission by unilaterally hiring Mr Okello to the “non-existence” post of Chief of Staff, therefore violating the Constitution.

Mr Thiiya asserts that the CJ did not uphold the principles of good governance, integrity, transparency, and accountability in creating the post and appointing Mr Okello.

Coordinating relations

Dr Mutunga appointed Mr Okello to head the newly created position in October 3, in what he termed as a move to make the Judiciary more accessible and accountable in its operations.

Mr Okello is responsible for coordinating relations with government departments, the private sector and non-governmental organisations.

However, Mr Thiiya contends that the appointment was illegal since it does not disclose the purpose, the requirements of the office holder, who he reports to and how he relates to other judicial names like registrars, judges and officers.

He said the CJ’s assertions that Mr Okello’s salary is being paid by the FORD Foundation is against the independence of the judiciary .

The case is scheduled to be heard by the High Court on Wednesday.