We decide cases based on evidence before us; KMJA defends judiciary

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The Kenya Judges and Magistrates Association has come out to defend the judiciary from attacks over war on corruption.

Through its Secretary General Derrick Kuto, KMJA denied allegations that the judiciary and judicial officers are an impediment in graft war.

“We decide cases purely on the basis of evidence placed before us and the applicable law,” said Kuto.

The SG added “convicting where there is no evidence is illegal. Where there has been evidence, the courts have convicted accordingly.”

The association further noted that all suspects are presumed innocent and nobody should be condemned unheard.

KMJA said parties that may be dissatisfied by decisions rendered by judicial officers can always appeal.

In addition, Kuto said that bond is a constitutional right for every Kenyan.

“This is a complete departure from the infamous 1980’s and early 1990’s when bond was perceived to be at the behest of the state,” he added.

According to the association, graft war will not be won by mudslinging and chest thumping but rather taking time to understand the constitutional framework and working meticulously within it.

“We wish to assure the public that we are committed in the fight against corruption,” KMJA states.

Further, they said that they will continue to determine all other cases on merit and uphold the rule of law as stipulated by the Kenyan constitution.