KENYA: “Keep Away from Political Maneuvering” Archbishop of Nyeri Warns Judiciary
Most Rev. Anthony Muheria of the Archdiocese of Nyeri
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
Most Rev. Anthony Muheria of the Archdiocese of Nyeri has told those working in the judicial system of the country to be independent in their profession and act in a way that their decisions promote justice and defend unity in the country.
The Archbishop’s message comes days after Kenya’s Judiciary accused the President for failing to approve the appointment of new judges whose names had been forwarded to the executive office mid-last year, causing challenges for the work in the courts.
“We ask you to keep away from political machination because that compromises justice,” Archbishop Muheria said via social media Tuesday, June 9.
“Remember the poor, remember the helpless, remember those who are voiceless as you mete out justice. Be godly so that the nobility of your profession may shine forth,” the Archbishop appealed to members of the judiciary reminding them that they are there to safeguard the nation’s harmony and unity.
Most Rev. Muheria also acknowledges that the judiciary is currently faced with challenges in settling disputes
“We know the difficulties that this Coronavirus, the lockdown and restrictions have caused to those processes which are meant to bring justice to the Kenyans and to the persons whose justice may in one way or the other have been infringed.”
Despite the challenges, he appeals to those involved in the justice system, “… our judges, our magistrates, our lawyers and all those who in one way or another fight in the civil right, human rights and others, to have at heart the rights of the human person,” he underscored.
Amidst the conflict between the two arms of government, Archbishop Muheria has reminded the judiciary of their role in bringing harmony in the country saying, “you are the last gate for justice to be given to those who need it.”
“Therefore, as you go about your work in the system, we urge you to keep that tenet of knowing that you are somehow God’s hand in making sure that human beings are held in the full dignity wherever they may be,” the Church leader stated.
“Live up to this divine call. We pray for you and hope that you leave up to your calling,” he concluded.
