Women Leaders Rally Behind Chief Justice Martha Koome Amid Judiciary Attacks
A coalition of Kenyan women leaders, drawn from various women’s rights organizations and civil society, has strongly condemned what they describe as an orchestrated attack on the judiciary.
In a joint statement, the women reaffirmed their unwavering support for Chief Justice Martha Koome and the Supreme Court judges, decrying what they termed as ill-intentioned efforts to undermine the judiciary at the highest levels.
“We are aware of the ongoing onslaught against Chief Justice Hon. Martha Koome and the judges of the Supreme Court, as well as the victimization campaign led by individuals determined to dismantle the judiciary by petitioning for the removal of all Supreme Court judges,” the statement read.
The women leaders cautioned that these relentless attacks on the judiciary are designed to discredit the institution and erode public confidence.
The statement further expressed deep concern over the persistent targeting of women in leadership, particularly those in top decision-making positions.
The women noted that Koome’s appointment as Kenya’s first female Chief Justice was a historic milestone, yet she continues to face unwarranted harassment.
“It is disturbing that every time a woman rises to a position of power, there are efforts to bring her down. This is unacceptable,” the group stated.
They warned that such politically motivated attacks could create a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to instability and lawlessness if the judiciary’s independence is compromised.
The women leaders have urged those behind the petition against the Supreme Court judges to withdraw it unconditionally, emphasizing that continued interference with the judiciary would threaten Kenya’s democratic gains.
“As women, we can no longer remain silent. We call upon all women’s rights defenders, both nationally and regionally, to stand against the attacks on Chief Justice Martha Koome and other women in leadership,” they declared.
The show of solidarity comes amid growing concerns that female leaders in Kenya face disproportionate scrutiny and resistance, even as they strive to uphold the rule of law and good governance.
