The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called for urgent reforms to address corruption and inefficiency in the judiciary, as well as police misconduct during recent public protests. Speaking to the media, LSK President Faith Odhiambo outlined a series of demands aimed at restoring public confidence in these critical institutions and upholding the rule of law.
The LSK highlighted the need for a transparent system for handling complaints within the judiciary. This proposed framework would track cases, resolve complaints efficiently and provide regular public reports.
Odhiambo urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to lead the development of this system in collaboration with the LSK and other stakeholders. She stressed that such measures must uphold the dignity of judicial officers while addressing misconduct to prevent institutional decay.
The LSK called for immediate investigations into alleged police brutality during protests against the 2024 Finance Bill. Odhiambo demanded that IPOA and KNCHR receive resources to investigate torture, killings, and other law enforcement violations.
She urged the Inspector General of Police to initiate disciplinary action against implicated officers, with findings referred for prosecution.
Justice for victims of police misconduct was a key demand. The LSK proposed tracing families of confirmed police victims. Additionally, the LSK suggested creating a formula for adequate compensation, involving IPOA, KNCHR, and other stakeholders.
Odhiambo called on the National Security Council to ensure the immediate and unconditional compensation of these families. To ensure accountability, the LSK proposed an inter-agency oversight committee to monitor reforms and publish regular updates.
While progress has been made in integrating technology and improving access to justice, gaps remain in the judiciary’s performance. The LSK criticized the judiciary for corruption and inconsistent rulings that have undermined public confidence.
Odhiambo held the JSC accountable and urged it to restore transparency, accountability, and independence in the judiciary.
Looking to 2024 as a turning point for constitutional accountability, Odhiambo commended Kenyans, especially the youth, for their resolve in rejecting the Finance Bill and defending the Constitution. However, she condemned the state’s actions during the protests, including unlawful detentions, extrajudicial killings and disregard for court orders, as signs of a government resistant to accountability.
Odhiambo reiterated the LSK’s commitment to stand with Kenyans in their struggle for justice and transparency. She urged state institutions to live up to their constitutional obligations, stressing that protecting sovereignty and the rule of law is a collective responsibility.
