By Peter Ochieng
President William Ruto on Monday issued directives to police officers, as a response to the shooting of Makadara Law Courts Principal Magistrate, Monica Kivuti, during an open and active court session on Thursday last week.
Kivuti died on Friday night while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital, after being shot by Chief Inspector of Police Samson Kipruto, after he was reportedly angered by the magistrate’s move to cancel bond terms for his wife. The officer was neutralized by his colleagues who were in court.
The wife, Jennipher Wairimu, is facing charges of obtaining Sh2.9 million by false pretense. The bail terms were canceled after she ‘jumped bond.’
President Ruto, through a post on his social media platforms directed police officers across the country to ensure that Judicial officers are well protected.
“I ask the police to ensure the safety of our judicial officers at all times as they discharge their duties. We have lost a firm and hardworking judicial professional who served Kenyans with dedication. She still had a lot to offer to our country,” the Ruto said.
“I join the family, friends and the judicial fraternity in mourning the tragic death of Honourable Monica Kivuti who was serving as the Principal Magistrate of the Makadara Courts. The confrontation, threats or attacks of any form against judicial officers is unacceptable, criminal and an affront to the rule of law.”
Ruto stated that the role of police is to protect Kenyans, and at no point should they deviate from that responsibility.
“Under no circumstances should they abandon this essential obligation or ever turn from their duty of protection and become threats to the safety and security of the people.”
Over the weekend, Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Judiciary flag will fly at half-mast from Saturday across all court stations, until Kivuti is laid to rest.
Attorney General Justin Muturi described the incident as an unimaginable act of violence.