The Atheists in Kenya Society has written to acting Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu protesting the shortlisting of Senior Counsel Fred Ngatia for the position of Chief Justice.
Through its president Harrison Mumia, the society expressed fears that Ngatia is likely to comprise judicial independence if he is appointed as the next Chief Justice.
While acknowledging that Ngatia is a highly experienced attorney, the nonbelievers said his personal interests may override his loyalty to the Kenyan public as the Chief Justice.
“Senior Counsel Fred Ngatia defended President Uhuru Kenyatta’s disputed win in Presidential petitions filed by Raila Odinga in 2013 and 2017. It’s obvious that his personal interests are likely to be contrary to his loyalty to the Kenya public as Chief Justice,” Mumia says in a letter.
The society averred that it has no confidence in his ability to safeguard the rights and freedoms of Kenyans and ensure equal protection for all.
“We are one year away from the general elections and it’s critical that we get a Chief Justice who will guarantee judicial independence of the Supreme Court,” The Society added.
Ngatia, who is among the 10 applicants shortlisted for the position, is set to be interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on April 20th at 9 am.
The interviews commenced on Monday, with Justice Chitembwe Said Juma being the first to appear before the panel followed by Prof. Patricia Mbote on Tuesday. Others are Justice William Ouko, Mathews Nduma Nderi, Njagi Marete, Philip Murgor, Prof. Wekesa Moni, and Alice Yano.
The seat fell vacant following the retirement of David Maraga in January this year.
Jambazi Mbete Mwilu is the…
Jambazi Mbete Mwilu is the worst.I am waiting to see if she can be nominated with her unconcluded criminal cases.She lady ought to have been sacked long ago for being one of the judges in presidential petition case which was prosecuted by her thug husband/boyfriend,Wako.Even Njoki Ndung’u should be sacked for being a judge in the same petition despite being childhood friends to Wanjiru Gakuo Muigai.
She should be in jail!
She should be in jail!