The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced its recusal from processing petitions or commenting on the matter, citing ongoing court cases.
The decision, detailed in a late-night press release by JSC member Hon. Isaac Rutto at 9:40 p.m.
The JSC’s statement comes amid escalating tensions following allegations of a orchestrated plan to oust the Supreme Court bench, a claim that has sparked fierce political debate.
Hon. Rutto emphasized that the commission’s role is to promote accountability and independence within the judiciary, not to initiate removal proceedings.
“The JSC will defend these matters in court rather than act preemptively,” the release read, signaling a hands-off approach as legal battles loom.
Citing its constitutional mandate under Articles 168, 172, and 252, the JSC reiterated its commitment to due process. Article 168 outlines the procedure for removing a judge—requiring a petition, investigation, and a tribunal—while Article 172 empowers the JSC to oversee judicial discipline.
Article 252 further grants the commission authority to address complaints. By stepping back, the JSC appears to be avoiding any perception of bias as it prepares to respond to the petitions in a judicial forum.
