The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to conduct an immediate and impartial investigation into judicial officers stationed at the Maua Law Courts following protests by lawyers over alleged misconduct.
In a statement dated November 1, 2025, LSK President Faith Odhiambo expressed concern over complaints raised by advocates in the Meru Chapter against judicial officers, including Damacaline Bosibori, Ken Muchiri and Elizabeth Khanali Chesoni.
Lawyers accused the officers of mistreatment and abuse of authority.
Odhiambo criticised the response by the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA), saying it failed to address the seriousness of the allegations. She said the issues at Maua Law Courts reflect a wider crisis in the judiciary marked by strained relations between the Bar, the Bench and court users.
She noted that complaints about the conduct of judicial officers have persisted for years without proper resolution, eroding public trust in the justice system.
Transferring officers accused of misconduct without addressing the underlying issues, she said, perpetuates impunity and undermines the rule of law.
The LSK called on the JSC to institute a thorough investigation into the conduct of judicial officers at Maua Law Courts, review the administrative and working conditions at the station, and enforce accountability measures that go beyond mere transfers.
Odhiambo warned that if the concerns raised by members remain unaddressed, the LSK may explore other actions, including mobilising members to boycott court proceedings across the country.
She added that continued dialogue without tangible outcomes has not resolved the grievances. The society reaffirmed its commitment to judicial independence while demanding accountability, transparency and ethical conduct from court officers.
“The LSK remains committed to ensuring that justice is served with integrity, dignity and fairness to all Kenyans,” Odhiambo said.
The society also noted that existing mechanisms within the JSC, such as the Judicial Conduct Complaints Commission and Court Users’ Committees, must be strengthened to ensure they effectively promote accountability and transparency in the judiciary.
The Magistrates Association had in a statement on October 31, 2025, accused advocates in Maua of intimidation and harassment of judicial officers.
On Thursday, protests broke out at the Maua Law Courts, during which a sitting Magistrate was reportedly harassed, her vehicle blocked, and inflammatory chants of "thief" directed at her by a group of advocates.
