The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has issued a strong condemnation following a chaotic scene outside the Ruiru Law Courts on Friday, July 4, where anti-riot police fired gunshots in the air during the re-arrest of Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) youth leader Peter Kinyanjui, popularly known as Kawanjiru.
The incident, which unfolded shortly after the court had released Kinyanjui on bond, has raised serious concerns about the use of force in court environments—a matter now being firmly addressed by Kenya’s top judicial authority.
CHIEF JUSTICE KOOME CONDEMNS COURTROOM CHAOS
In a statement signed by JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya, CBS, the commission, under the leadership of Chief Justice Martha Koome, called out the police for what it termed “excessive, unwarranted, and dangerous conduct” that disrespects the sanctity of the judiciary.
“While the Commission recognises the constitutional role of the police to arrest suspects, the use of firearms within court premises is unacceptable and poses a direct threat to the independence, authority, and dignity of the Judiciary,” read the statement.
FIREARMS IN COURT: A BREACH OF JUSTICE PROTOCOL
The JSC underscored that courts are sacred spaces where justice must be administered without intimidation or violence. The dramatic gunfire episode, witnessed by lawyers, court officials, and the public, was described as an affront to judicial sovereignty.
“Courts are secure and impartial forums for constitutional adjudication. They must be protected from all forms of interference and intimidation,” the commission reiterated.
The re-arrest of Kinyanjui—who had just been lawfully released on bond—sparked tension, leading officers to discharge firearms to scatter a growing crowd outside the courtroom.
CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY AND PROFESSIONALISM
The Judicial Service Commission called on all law enforcement and justice sector actors to uphold decorum, respect court orders, and avoid eroding public confidence in the country’s legal systems.
“We urge all players in the justice system to conduct themselves in a manner that safeguards the credibility and impartiality of judicial institutions,” said Mokaya.
BACKDROP: KINYANJUI’S ARREST LINKED TO NAKURU PROTESTS
Peter Kinyanjui, a vocal ally of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, was re-arrested in connection with the violent protests that rocked Nakuru on June 25, as part of the broader Generation Z-led anti-tax demonstrations that have been sweeping across the country.
His initial release on bond by the Ruiru Law Courts was met with approval by his supporters—but moments later, plainclothes anti-terror officers seized him again, leading to the controversial gunfire that has now placed the Kenya Police under renewed scrutiny.
JUDICIARY URGES FIREARMS BAN IN COURT ENVIRONS
To prevent future incidents, the Judiciary is advising law enforcement agencies to refrain from using or discharging firearms in or around court premises under any circumstances.
“Security operations near courts must respect judicial sanctity and citizen safety,” emphasized the JSC.
