The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced the initiation of proceedings to remove Justice Mohammed Noor Kullow from office in a statement released on Wednesday, March 6.
This decision came after the commission received five petitions accusing the Environment and Land Court Judge of breaching the Constitution and the Judicial Service Code of Conduct.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, leading the Commission, disclosed that three of the five petitions presented sufficient grounds for Justice Kullow’s removal, citing gross misconduct, incompetence, and violations of the Judicial Service Code of Conduct. Two petitions were dismissed due to insufficient grounds.
Additionally, on May 31, 2023, the JSC, prompted by numerous complaints, independently resolved to commence proceedings for Justice Kullow’s removal due to prolonged delays or failures to deliver judgments in 116 cases.
The JSC stated that it had petitioned President William Ruto to appoint a tribunal as per constitutional requirements. Within 14 days of receiving the petition, President Ruto is obligated to suspend the judge and, upon the recommendation of the JSC, appoint a tribunal to investigate the grounds for removal.
The Constitution mandates that the tribunal conducts an expeditious inquiry into the matter, reporting its findings and making binding recommendations to the President.
Furthermore, the JSC discharged Principal Magistrate Patrick Wambugu from his duties after accusations of altering bond terms, leading to the release of a suspect who subsequently absconded bail.
On January 15, the JSC announced its commitment to regularly inform the public through periodic reports on the number and status of complaints and petitions received.
