‘It’s the rule of law, not man,’ Ruto says as he presides over swearing-in of 6 judges

The six, four of whom are of the Court of Appeal and two Environment and Land Court, had been nominated for appointment three years ago by the Judicial Service Commission, but former President Uhuru Kenyatta declined to appoint them.

But immediately after his inauguration on Tuesday, President Ruto kicked off his official duties by signing two separate gazette notices appointing them, and on Wednesday witnessed their swearing-in at State House in Nairobi.

“Kenya can only be better if we become a country of the rule of law. Anything else leads to anarchy and confusion. We are all equal before the law,” said Dr Ruto.

“Even as president I have limitations and I should respect them, just like all other arms of government have limitations. We must all live within our mandates… It is the rule of law, not the rule of man,” he added.

Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi administered the oaths of office to Court of Appeal judges Korir Weldon Kipyegon, Muchelule Aggrey Otsyula, Odunga George Vincent and Prof. Joel Mwaura Ngugi.

Makori Evans Kiago and Cheruiyot Omange Judith Elizabeth were thereafter sworn in as Environment and Land Court judges.

“I am looking forward to supporting the Judiciary so that it can dispense its mandate. It is important that we have an independent and efficient Judiciary,” the Head of State added.

He further assured that his administration will respect the independence of the Judiciary and also called upon the arm to support his administration by ensuring cases from corruption to land issues are determined in good time.

“That way we can promote Kenya as a country that attracts investment. Investors can have more confidence if we can dispense justice in a timely manner,” he said, adding that he is determined to ensure all government arms work in harmony under his administration.

Chief Justice Martha Koome and her deputy, Philomena Mwilu were also present at the ceremony.

Mr Kenyatta had declined to appoint the six on grounds that there were adverse reports against them from the intelligence service.