The Judiciary has reportedly appointed Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu to take over as Acting Chief Justice (CJ) as her boss David Maraga proceeds to a month leave, after which he’ll retire on January 12, 2021.
According to a letter doing rounds on social media, CJ Maraga has authorized Mwilu to undertake all his duties while on leave, adding that she’ll also serve as acting Chief Justice once he retires next month.
“I hereby authorize you Philomena Mbete Mwilu , the Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya to act as Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya and perform all duties and functions of Chief Justice from 12th December 2020 until my retirement on January 12, 2021.
“I shall return on January 11, 2021 to officially hand over to you to continue acting as Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya for a period not exceeding six months or until a new Chief Justice is appointed in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” the letter read in part.
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Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi confirmed the news stating that he wishes DCJ Mwilu all the best as she takes over the new position.
“Deputy Chief Justice Honourable Philomena Mbete Mwilu is effective today the Acting Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya. I wish her the very best as she serves notwithstanding unwarranted heightened attacks from operatives in the Executive. The rule of law must prevail,” he tweeted.
Reacting to the news, Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi said: “Sasa, Rais @NelsonHavi ya @lawsocietykenya is too powerful. He is a general with 17k lawyers under his command and then his client was appointed "acting" CJ...Mambo ni...serious .”
