By Jane Meza
Mombasa County, Kenya: Members of the Mombasa Law Society (MLS) took a stand against President William Ruto’s recent onslaught on the judiciary, expressing their concerns about potential threats to democratic governance and the rule of law.
Wearing purple ribbons symbolizing their commitment to the rule of law, Mombasa lawyers staged a peaceful demonstration from the Imara Building to the Law Courts, underscoring the significance of the 2010 constitution in ensuring democratic principles.
Brian Okoko Jeka, an advocate in Mombasa, warned that the President’s attacks on the judiciary could pave the way for unconstitutional executive policies. He stressed the importance of respecting court orders and cautioned against the risk of descending into anarchy if calls to disobey court decisions persist.
“As advocates in Mombasa and the wider coastal region, we stand in solidarity with the judiciary,” Okoko stated.
He reminded the executive of their reliance on court judgments, emphasizing the judiciary’s crucial role in upholding the rule of law and democratic processes.
Despite potential disagreements with court decisions, Okoko asserted that the government is obligated to respect and obey judicial rulings. “We took an oath to defend the rule of law and democracy, safeguarding the public interest,” he affirmed.
Kevin Osoro echoed concerns about the negative rhetoric against the judiciary and urged for a distinction between fair criticism and baseless accusations. Emphasizing the judiciary’s independence, he called on Kenyans to work together to uphold the integrity of the judicial system.
Lawrence Obonyo underscored the judiciary’s role as the last line of defense and called for unity in condemning any statements that undermine the court’s authority. Mombasa lawyers remain committed to challenging decisions or policies harmful to the citizenry and unconstitutional, reinforcing their dedication to upholding justice.
