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Intelligence reports have linked rejected judges to graft – MP claims, defends Uhuru

Monday, June 14th, 2021 10:00 | By
"Inteligence reports by EACC says some nudges recieved bribes. Some bribes in form of a house in Kitusuru," Kigano said while addressing a crowd on Sunday, June 13.
Four judges left out in the recent appointments by President Uhuru Kenyatta. Kangema MP Muturi Kigano says there's evidence linking some of the judges to graft.Photo/courtesy
"Inteligence reports by EACC says some nudges recieved bribes. Some bribes in form of a house in Kitusuru," Kigano said while addressing a crowd on Sunday, June 13.

The row over President Uhuru Kenyatta's refusal to appoint 6 judges out of the 41 fronted by the Judiciary has continued to elicit debate.

Kangema MP Muturi Kigano who chairs the Justice and Legal committee in Parliament says the committee saw intelligent reports linking the judges to graft.

"Intelligence reports by EACC says some nudges received bribes. Some bribes in form of a house in Kitusuru," Kigano said while addressing a crowd on Sunday, June 13.

The MP further revealed that a detailed report of what each specific person received is there but it disappeared before it reached JSC, including affidavits.

"This issue only came up after the names had already been forwarded. Would you want thieves in court? Let me tell you, the President's work is to look after us," Kigano said.

The Sunday statement by the MP comes after a section of leaders cautioned the executive and judiciary to end their row.

On Saturday, ODM leader Raila Odinga challenged the President to table evidence behind his refusal to appoint the six.

In his statement, Raila termed the current dispute between the judiciary and executive as unfortunate adding that it was costing the country.

"I challenge the Executive arm of government, to share with the Judiciary and the public the concerns and evidence that led to the rejection of the six," Raila said.

Raila's sentiments were also shared by the National Council of Churches of Kenya who asked the President and Chief Justice to respect each other.

"There is need for three arms of government to exercise and project respect for each other and how they relate with each other so as to set a good example for Kenyans," the clerics said.

In June 3, Uhuru appointed 34 judges fronted by JSC leaving out six whom he said had a questionable character.

In 2020, Attorney General Kihara Kariuki defended Uhuru over his refusal to appoint the judges after former CJ David Maraga launched a stinging attack on the executive, blaming the arm of government of frustrating justice.

The AG said the President was within the law to refuse appointing nominees fronted by JSC.

“His Excellency the President will not abdicate his role as Head of State and Government to appoint persons with a questionable record to serve the nation in the solemn role of judge,” the AG said.

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