In an interview, Kenya's first female Chief Justice, Martha Koome, strongly rebuffed claims of corruption against her and the judiciary, describing the accusations as misogynistic distractions. She emphasizes her commitment to tackling gender-based violence in the country.
Kenya's Chief Justice Defends Against Corruption Allegations, Highlights Gender-Based Violence
Kenya's Chief Justice Defends Against Corruption Allegations, Highlights Gender-Based Violence
Chief Justice Martha Koome responds to criticism, labeling allegations of bribery as misogynistic while advocating for justice for women.
Kenya's Chief Justice Martha Koome has firmly rejected recent allegations of corruption within the judiciary, asserting that such claims are rooted in misogyny. Speaking to the BBC, Koome stated, "In all these 22 years I’ve been a judge and a chief justice, nobody has ever approached me with a bribe. I would have them arrested." The remarks come amid criticisms directed toward her failure to adequately address bribery claims in the legal system, a situation some have coined "jurispesa," blending legal terminology and the Swahili word for money.
Koome urged accusers to present tangible evidence of corruption to relevant security authorities or the judicial oversight commission. She expressed concern that the allegations aimed to undermine her credibility and distract her from her work, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining impartiality.
The judiciary in Kenya has faced longstanding allegations of corruption, with Koome acknowledging in a 2021 interview that such practices are a national embarrassment. The Chief Justice pointed out that a significant portion of the criticism leveled against her is due to her gender, stating, "It is total misogyny. It is total chauvinism."
One of Koome's primary focal points as Chief Justice has been addressing the alarming rates of violence against women. She noted the distressing trend where reports of young women losing their lives due to violence have become commonplace, mentioning a disturbing spike in femicide cases over recent months.
The Africa Data Hub reported over 500 women fell victim to femicide in Kenya from 2016 to 2024, underscoring the urgency of the issue. In response to the crisis, Koome is spearheading the establishment of 11 specialized courts nationwide that address sexual and gender-based crimes. Currently, two courts have been set up in Kisumu and Siaya counties. She stated, "We have a lot of hope in them because cases of gender-based violence must be given priority."
Koome remains resolute about ensuring that justice is accessible to women, particularly survivors of violence, and aims to prevent them from enduring prolonged legal struggles in the pursuit of justice.
