CJ David Maraga says Judiciary ready to handle election disputes
From left: Lamu Governor Issa Timamy, Chief Justice David Maraga, Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi at the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (Lapsset) corridor project site in Kililana, Lamu County, on February 13, 2017. PHOTO | KALUME KAZUNGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Justice Maraga called on leaders from across the political divide to sell their manifestos in a manner that portrays their patriotism.
- The CJ said Kenya is bigger than any individual and called on citizens to embrace peace before and even after the General Election.
Chief Justice David Maraga has said the Judiciary is ready to tackle any disputes that may arise from the August 8 elections.
He said the courts have done a lot of work in preparing for elections and that judges, magistrates and other departments in the Judiciary are set to handle cases that may arise before and after the elections.
“The Judiciary is prepared to handle election petitions and any other election related cases. Even before the elections, if we have cases of people planning to destroy the peace of this country, we will deal with them as per the law. Those found guilty of such offences will be jailed,” he said.
Justice Maraga called on leaders and Kenyans to ensure the elections are peaceful.
Addressing the public during the inauguration of the Mpeketoni Law Courts on Monday, Justice Maraga called on leaders from across the political divide to sell their manifestos in a manner that portrays their patriotism.
He also cautioned politicians against making hateful remarks in the name of seeking votes.
The CJ, who is also the chairman of the National Council for Administration of Justice, a body that brings together all government security agencies, court users and the various stakeholders in the justice system, said Kenya is bigger than any individual and called on citizens to embrace peace before and after the elections.
“This is a year of elections. I call on all citizens to maintain peace. I am aware that politicians have already begun seeking votes. I urge you to conduct your campaigns in a manner that will not divide the nation.
"We don’t want a repeat of what happened in 2007/2008. Let us join hands in ensuring Kenya is peaceful before and even after the August 8 General Elections,” he said.
Justice Maraga urged all judges, magistrates and other court staff to serve Kenyans diligently.
“Let us have a passion to serve. I want you to leave behind a [positive] legacy in your stations once you leave,” he added.
