Siaya Governor James Orengo has joined leaders condemning President William Ruto’s recent critique of the Judiciary, denouncing it as both reckless and perilous. During a burial ceremony, Ruto unabashedly declared his intention to disregard court orders in pursuit of his development initiatives.
Orengo characterized the president’s defiance of judicial rulings as a stain on our constitutional framework, emphasizing the existence of legal avenues to challenge decisions obtained through fraud or to rectify a perceived rogue judiciary.
He pointed out that the presidency wields numerous tools, and noncompliance with inconvenient court orders is not a legitimate option. Orengo asserted the right of every citizen, including public officials, to resist unlawful directives from their superiors.
The Siaya governor underscored the gravity of Ruto’s statements, deeming them the most perilous among his recent pronouncements as they undermine both the constitution and the sovereignty of the Kenyan people. Speaking from his rural residence in Ugenya constituency, Orengo reminded Ruto that the Judiciary does not share judicial authority with the executive branch.
Orengo clarified that executive power is constrained by the law, emphasizing that any actions outside the president’s constitutional authority, such as defiance of court orders and violation of the constitution, would incur legal consequences. He asserted that no one, including the president, is exempt from the law.
The president’s comments have ignited widespread reactions from both leaders and the general public. Ruto accused the courts of bribery and corruption in obstructing the Affordable Housing Levy Bill and the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act. All eyes are now on the judiciary as the impending hearings and verdicts for both cases loom on the horizon.
