President Ruto Suspends Judge Kullow, Appoints Tribunal Over Misconduct Allegations

President William Ruto has taken decisive action against Justice Mohammed Kullow by suspending him from office and appointing a seven-member tribunal to investigate allegations of gross misconduct leveled against the judge. This move follows a recommendation by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), the constitutional body responsible for overseeing the conduct and discipline of judicial officers.

In a gazette notice dated March 8, 2023, President Ruto officially constituted the tribunal, with Appellate Judge Patrick Kiage appointed as its chairperson. The other members comprising the tribunal are Justice Margaret Njoki Mwangi, Justice Anthony Charo Mrima, Jinaro Kipkemoi, Wanjiru Mwariri, Rukia Abdinasir Mohamed, and Charles Mulila.

The primary mandate of this tribunal will be to consider four separate petitions calling for the removal of Justice Kullow from his position as a judge of the Environment and Land Court. Additionally, the probe team will conduct a thorough inquiry into the judge's conduct, examining the particulars outlined in the petitions to determine whether the allegations constitute a breach of Article 168 of the Constitution, which outlines the grounds for removal of a judge from office.

In his gazette notice, President Ruto instructed the tribunal to expeditiously prepare and submit a report detailing its findings and recommendations. Furthermore, the tribunal has been granted all necessary legal powers to execute its mandate effectively and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Justice Kullow.

The JSC, chaired by Chief Justice Martha Koome, had previously recommended the suspension of Justice Kullow based on allegations of gross misconduct, incompetence, and violation of the Judicial Service Code of Conduct. Among the specific accusations leveled against the judge is the inordinate delay or failure to deliver rulings or judgments in a staggering 116 cases, raising concerns about his ability to discharge his duties efficiently and uphold the principles of timely justice.

Following the JSC's recommendation, President Ruto acted swiftly to initiate the disciplinary process by suspending Justice Kullow and constituting the tribunal. During the suspension period, the judge will receive half of his regular salary as he awaits the tribunal's determination of his fate.

The appointment of this independent tribunal underscores the government's commitment to maintaining the integrity and accountability of the judicial system. It also serves as a reminder that no individual, regardless of position or rank, is above scrutiny when it comes to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and ethical conduct.