Chief Justice Martha Koome has come out strongly against corruption in the judiciary, branding it a “crime against humanity.”
In a hard-hitting opinion published on Wednesday, Koome said corruption strips Kenyans of dignity, rights, and opportunity. She warned that unless the vice is stopped, future generations risk inheriting no nation at all.
“Corruption is not only an ethical violation or a technical offence but, quite literally, a crime against humanity. Corruption denies citizens their rights, their dignity and their future,” Koome said.
She added: “Unless we stop it once and for all, we may leave behind no nation for our posterity.”
The CJ pointed to findings from the 2023 National Ethics and Corruption Survey, which showed Kenyans in the judiciary paid an average of Ksh49,611 in bribes. Although the national average dropped in 2024 to Ksh4,878, Koome said the problem remains widespread and normalised.
Koome said the judiciary has set up integrity committees in all courts to identify graft risks and promote ethical practices. She highlighted other reforms, including confidential hotlines for whistleblowers and the Office of the Judiciary Ombudsperson, which investigates complaints transparently.
She also defended judges, noting that courts have not hesitated to issue tough rulings against high-profile individuals accused of economic crimes.
“Our courts have not bowed to technicalities or political convenience to protect those faced with economic crimes. The judiciary’s stance is clear: the corrupt will not have a safe haven among us,” she said.
Despite the measures, Koome admitted bribery remains a major hurdle for ordinary Kenyans seeking services across the country.
