Chief Justice Martha Koome has hit back at her critics, asserting her determination to remain in office despite sustained attacks aimed at discrediting her leadership.
Speaking at the inaugural High Court Human Rights Summit in Nairobi, Koome opened up about being a target of cyberbullying, which she termed as “technologically facilitated Gender-Based Violence.”
Koome revealed that the attacks seem calculated to scare, distract, or pressure her into resigning but made it clear she has no intention of stepping down.
“I am a victim of cyberbullying, or is it called technologically facilitated Gender-Based Violence. I know the intention is to scare, distract, defame, and hound me out of office, but they can try something else,” she said.
The Chief Justice refrained from naming individuals behind the attacks but condemned the behavior, noting that it appears to be a business model for some.
Koome’s remarks come amid persistent criticism of the judiciary from various quarters, including prominent lawyers and human rights organizations.
Despite these challenges, the Chief Justice reaffirmed her institution’s commitment to fighting corruption and protecting the rights of Kenyan citizens.
“Corruption has eaten into the fabric of our society, and while it poses existential threats to the judiciary, we will not be deterred from serving the people of Kenya,” Koome stated.
She highlighted the judiciary’s proactive stance in upholding citizens’ rights, citing recent rulings during the Gen Z protests where the High Court balanced law enforcement and the constitutional right to peaceful demonstrations.
“The High Court’s courage in applying the right to habeas corpus, especially in cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial actions, is a testament to our commitment to justice and democracy,” she added.
Koome acknowledged the judiciary’s struggles with underfunding and external pressures but emphasized that these would not hinder their mission to deliver justice. She called for support to strengthen the judiciary’s role as a defender of democracy and fundamental freedoms in the country.
Her defiant stand sends a strong message that the judiciary remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the nation, regardless of the challenges it faces.
