Thika magistrates under probe over graft, CJ Willy Mutunga says
Chief Justice Willy Mutunga at a past event. Dr Mutunga said investigations have been launched over corruption complaints against Thika magistrates. FILE PHOTO | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Lawyers were frustrated by delays in dispensation of justice as a result of shortage of magistrates.
- Thika, which has seven law courts, deserves at least an additional three resident magistrates.
The Judicial Service Commission has received complaints of corruption against some Thika-based magistrates, Chief Justice Willy Mutunga has said.
Addressing the public Thursday when he made a surprise visit to the Thika Law Courts, the CJ said the matter was under investigation.
The CJ asked the public to help in the fight against corruption.
"We need the co-operation of all Kenyans in order to succeed in fighting corruption and getting rid of any cartels in the corridors of justice," he said.
Responding to questions from lawyers, Dr Mutunga said a new court will be opened in Ruiru to help decongest the courts in Thika.
The chairman of the Thika Bar Association, Ms Waithera Mwangi, told the CJ that lawyers were frustrated by delays in dispensing justice as a result of a shortage of magistrates and called for the establishment of a High Court in the region.
Ms Mwangi said Thika, which has seven law courts, deserves at least an additional three resident magistrates to be able to cope with the large number of litigants.
Dr Mutunga said the Judiciary was negotiating with the Kiambu County government on a suitable location to set up a High Court.
