Obeying Court Orders Not Optional, Chief Justice Maraga Says

Chief Justice David Maraga has come out to strongly condemn the recent ignoring of court orders by government officials and institutions.

In a hard hitting statement to newsrooms on Wednesday, Maraga termed the recent decision by the Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet and Directorate of Criminal Investigations boss George Kinoti to ignore orders to appear in court as a gross violation of the Constitution

“…Every government officer, government institution or private citizen are obliged to comply with Court Orders,” said Maraga

On Monday, High Court judge Luka Kimaru had ordered the two to appear in court and bring with them politician Miguna Miguna, who had been in police custody since Friday.

However, the two sent Assistant Inspector Stanley Cheruiyot and Amos Omuga from the DCI to represent them, while Miguna was not brought to the court.

“Compliance with court orders is not an option for any individual or institution. Neither is it a favour to be doled out to the Judiciary. Rather, it is a crucial matter of constitutional and civic obligation,” said the CJ.

On Tuesday, High Court further directed the police to free self-proclaimed NRM general on anticipatory bail, but police disregarded the order.

“Courts are temples of justice and the place of refuge for those seeking protection. They must never be despoiled either through physical transgressions or blatant disregard of their pronouncements,” said Maraga.

He re-assured Kenyans that courts will continue to act independently to ensure that the rule of law, justice and equality is achieved.