MCA Stresses Inclusion of Kenyans in Judicial-Executive Dialogue

During an appearance on the DayBreak Show with Trevor Ombija on January 19, 2024, Grace Bahati, the Kyeleni MCA, emphasised the importance of involving Kenyans in any dialogue between the judiciary and the executive.

She stressed the need for transparency and ensuring that the agendas being discussed genuinely address the concerns and interests of the Kenyan people.

“If there has to be a dialogue between the judiciary and executive, it must be live on TV to ensure Kenyans are a part of it. We need to know whether the agendas they want to talk about are reliving us (Kenyans) and not what would fit their interest,” she said.

The relationship between the judiciary and the executive branch in Kenya has been intensely discussed and scrutinised.

Recent calls for dialogue between these two branches of government have sparked debates on transparency, accountability, and the interests of the Kenyan people.

President William Ruto has been vocal about his allegations of corruption within the judiciary. He has accused unnamed individuals of using "corrupt judges" to obstruct his administration's initiatives, including healthcare and affordable housing projects.

These claims have raised concerns about the independence and integrity of the judiciary. In response to these allegations, President Ruto has called for dialogue with the Chief Justice, Martha Koome, to address the issue of corruption and alleged sabotage.

Last Friday, lawyers across Kenya staged protests to express their concerns over consistent attacks on the independence of the judiciary by the executive branch.

In response to Chief Justice Martha Koome's call for a meeting with President Ruto, the Head of State has expressed his willingness to talk with the leadership of the judiciary and the legislature. President Ruto emphasises the need to address allegations of corruption, vested interests, and perceived obstruction of his administration's work.