Interfaith leaders defend Chief Justice Willy Mutunga over calls to resign

Inter-religious leaders in Isiolo have defended Chief Justice Willy Mutunga following calls to resign from a section of politicians.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Inter-Faith Religious Organisation chairman Ahmed Set, National Muslims Leadership Forum (Namlef) secretary Abdirahaman Mueka and Rev Julius Golicha said the Chief Justice had initiated vital reforms in the judicial system.

The leaders also warned political leaders against politicising the matter for personal interests.

National Assembly Majority Leader Adan Duale on Sunday called on the Chief Justice to resign on grounds that he was condoning corruption in the Judiciary.

According to Mr Duale, the Chief Justice should take responsibility as “the father of the family” by resigning.

Mr Set said the Chief Justice had already constituted a Judicial Service Committee to investigate bribery allegations against Justice Philip Tunoi and the matter should be left to the investigating team.

Mr Mueka, on the other hand, defended the Chief Justice against allegations claimed by the majority leader that Justice Mutunga had done little to contain the situation.

“The Chief Justice has done a lot. He has restored our confidence in the judicial system whose image had been tarnished for years,” said Mr Mueka.

The religious leaders said Mr Mutunga had done well in restoring public confidence the justice system in Kenya.

“It is so unfortunate that politicians are criticising Mr Mutunga at this moment. He has taken action and the matter is before the investigating committee. What else could he have done? Sentence him without fair judgment?” posed Mr Set.