Second-highest judge in Kenya arrested on charge of corruption
Some suspect Philomena Mwilu’s prosecution relates to Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta’s threat to ‘fix the judiciary’ after the annulment of his initial election
Nairobi — Kenya’s deputy chief justice, the country’s second-highest judge, was arrested on Tuesday on corruption charges. Philomena Mwilu is one of seven members of the supreme court, and was among the judges who nullified President Uhuru Kenyatta’s initial election win in August 2017, leading to the controversial holding of a new vote. Kenya’s director of public prosecutions Noordin Haji told journalists there was evidence she had abused her office for personal gain and accepted money as a gift in dubious circumstances. She is also accused of failing to pay taxes and executing a security belonging to the Imperial Bank — which collapsed in 2015 — under false pretences. "This afternoon, I informed chief justice David Maraga of my decision to grant consent for the arrest and prosecution of the deputy chief justice … Philomena Mbete Mwilu, on criminal charges," Haji said. "This decision has not been taken lightly," he added, saying "the dignity and independence of the judiciary is dea...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.