‘Ruto must go!’ – Kalonzo, Wamalwa join lawyers in protest against gov’t
By Joel Sang, January 12, 2024
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa led lawyers on Friday, January 12 in their protest against President William Ruto‘s remarks against the judiciary.
Recently, Ruto has led a consistent criticism of the third arm of government, and his remarks have generated a lot of criticism, although members of his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party have backed his comments.
On Thursday, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) announced their plans to demonstrate on Friday. The demos were held at the Supreme Court Grounds in Nairobi and proceeded along Parliament Road to the Office of the President.
‘Ruto must go’ chants filled the air as the advocates aired their concerns against the President.
LSK initially called out the president and urged him to refrain from undermining the judiciary. According to the lawyer’s body, the president’s remarks are akin to public incitement against the judiciary, which they feel would be detrimental to the constitutional order.
Ruto’s comments also drew the ire of East African Judges and Magistrates (EAMJA), who said they were deeply concerned with Kenya’s Head of State’s attack on the judiciary.
“EAMJA wishes to remind the Kenyan government of its commitment to various regional, continental, and international instruments that underscore the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary.
“EAMJA underscores the significance of addressing any grievances against judicial officers or their decisions within an acceptable framework that enhances the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
“Any concerns or disputes must be handled through established legal channels, respecting the principles of due process and the separation of powers,” EAMJA said in their protest statement.