Raila’s Blow: Ruto’s Appointees to Investigate Shakahola Massacre Despite Opposition
A commission appointed by President William Ruto to investigate the Shakahola massacre was sworn in on Tuesday, May 9, despite protests from former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The Commission of Enquiry, led by Lady Justice Jessie Lessit, was also anticipated to begin its deliberations on May 10, following the swearing-in ceremony.
While taking the oath, the commission led by Lessit vowed to diligently carry out its mandate and uncover the scandal.
The ceremony was a blow to the leader of Azimio la Umoja, who had filed a lawsuit against the Head of State on Tuesday, May 9, claiming that he had appointed the team illegally.
The opposition leader argued in court documents that Ruto had usurped Parliament’s authority by making the appointments.
He asserted that only the August House had the legal authority to form the aforementioned commission of inquiry.
Consequently, Raila petitioned the court to invalidate President Ruto’s appointment to the Commission of Inquiry.
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“We reiterate that the Constitution alone grants the Judicial Service Commission the authority to recruit qualified individuals to serve on courts.
In court documents filed by his attorney, Paul Mwangi, Raila argued that the president lacks the authority to determine the composition of a court or an independent tribunal, or who sits on the bench of a court or independent tribunal.
The former Prime Minister also argued that the Head of State violated the Constitution. And contributed to tainting the impartiality of judicial officers. Who may be enticed by the appointments, thereby favoring the Executive in cases involving them.
Ruto Schedules Engagements
On Friday, May 5, the Head of State appointed the Commission of Inquiry. And charged them with discovering the truth behind the Shakahola tragedy.
He instructed the committee to investigate the deaths, torture, and inhumane degrading treatment of members. And other individuals associated with the church led by Pastor Paul Mackenzie.
Alongside Lessit, Lady Justice (Ret.) Mary Muhanji Kasango, Eric Gumbo, Bishop Catherine Mutua. Jonathan Lodompui (Dr.), Frank Njenga (Dr.), Wanyama Musiambu, and Albert Musasia were sworn in as committee members.
Oliver Kipchumba Karori and Rachel Maina served as Joint Secretaries, while Kioko Kilukumi served as the Chief Counsel.
Ruto also appointed Vivian Janet Nyambeki and Bahati Mwamuye to the Commission of Inquiry to provide legal counsel.
Over 130 bodies have been exhumed so far from the notorious forest, and exhumation is expected to continue.
Raila’s Blow: Ruto’s Appointees to Investigate Shakahola Massacre Despite Opposition
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