Chief Justice nominee David Kenani Maraga appeared before National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee for vetting today.
The Nyamira 1951 born Justice Maraga who schooled at the local area, then Maranda High School and later Kisii High was nominated last month following a series of lengthy interviews among them the outspoken Professor Makau Mutua.
Maraga, who has worked for many years in Kisumu, has been the presiding judge in the Kisumu Law Courts up to the point of CJ appointment.
The thirteen (13) years experienced judge said that he has a big vision for Kenya in the 21st century, the vision he says he derived from his experience as a judge.
Maraga added that “when cases drag on in the courts for long, they affect the affairs of individuals, business & the economy as a whole,” and he wants to reduce the drag.
Speaking during the vetting, Justice Maraga noted that the three arms of the government need to come together to discuss issues that affect our country such as terrorismChepkonga: Should the Judiciary issue injunctions in matters that have not been concluded by Parliament
“I hold the view that the three arms of government are all accountable to the people,” he said. “I think no arm of government can have absolute power and that’s why checks and balances exist.”
Chepkonga tasked Maraga to explain whether the Judiciary can issue injunctions in matters that have not been concluded by Parliament.
“Judiciary has no power to issue injunctions against matters in the House except when dealing with disciplinary issues,” the nominated CJ responded.
Maraga added that he is a liberal person and his duty is to ensure those who come to the court are granted their rights regardless of their religion.
If the vetting goes through in success, he will be confirmed as the CJ who will inherit the office formerly occupied by retired CJ, DR. Willy Mutunga.