Nairobi, Kenya – Former Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Vice Chairperson Macharia Njeru has written to Chief Justice Martha Koome, raising concerns over what he describes as the open participation of current JSC Vice Chairperson Isaac Ruto in partisan political activities.
Allegations of Political Engagement
In a letter addressed to the Chief Justice in her capacity as JSC Chairperson, Njeru cited media reports and images allegedly showing Ruto attending meetings of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), including the party’s National Governing Council meeting held at State House.
“It is unprecedented for a serving JSC Commissioner to openly associate and actively engage in the activities of a political party while still in office,” Njeru wrote, adding that such conduct “flies in the face of the express provisions of the Constitution, the Leadership and Integrity Act and the applicable codes of conduct.”
Threat to Judicial Independence
Njeru warned that the alleged actions pose “a serious threat to the independence of the Judiciary,” stressing that political neutrality is a cornerstone of public confidence in the justice system.
Drawing from his experience at the Commission, Njeru recalled that during his tenure, active involvement in partisan politics was a key factor used to exclude candidates from being shortlisted for judicial appointments.
“Continued open and active involvement in politics was a factor used by the Commission to shield the Judiciary from being muddled up in partisan politics. To now have a Commissioner, who is also the Vice Chairperson, doing the very same thing that is frowned upon is unacceptable,” he stated.
Call for Action
Njeru emphasized that it was clearly understood among commissioners that they could not engage in partisan politics while serving at the JSC, adding that he was not aware of any policy changes permitting such conduct.
In his letter dated January 27, 2026, Njeru formally requested the Chief Justice to place the matter before the full Commission for deliberation. He further urged that Ruto recuse himself from ongoing judicial interviews and ultimately step down from the Commission.
“My expectation is that Hon. Ruto will exclude himself from participating in the remaining interviews for judge positions and proceed to resign from the Commission altogether with immediate effect, for the greater good of the Judiciary and the JSC,” Njeru said.
Importance of Political Neutrality
The JSC plays a central role in the recruitment, discipline, and oversight of judicial officers, making political neutrality among its members critical to maintaining public trust in the justice system.
Njeru’s letter adds to growing debate over the boundaries between judicial service and political engagement, raising questions about how Kenya’s institutions safeguard independence and integrity in governance.
