Petition Seeks Isaac Ruto's Removal from JSC for Political Bias
A petition has been filed seeking the removal of Isaac Ruto (also referred to as Isaac Rutto) as a member—and Vice Chairperson—of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in Kenya. The petitioner, Nairobi-based lawyer Eric Muriuki , argues that Ruto's alleged involvement in partisan political activities undermines the legitimacy and independence of the JSC.
The petition was formally submitted to the National Assembly, with the Clerk acknowledging receipt on Thursday, January 29, 2026, and confirming it has been forwarded for consideration under constitutional and statutory procedures for handling complaints against public office holders.
The core claim revolves around Ruto's participation in activities linked to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the ruling party. Specifically:
1.He is accused of attending a UDA National Governing Council (NGC) meeting, reportedly at State House, while wearing party merchandise or in a manner suggesting active political engagement.
2.Critics argue this breaches constitutional requirements for political neutrality among members of independent commissions like the JSC.
3.Cited violations include provisions in the Constitution (Articles 10, 73, 75, 77, and 249 on national values, leadership integrity, independence of commissions, and impartiality), the Judicial Service Commission Act, the Leadership and Integrity Act, the Conflict of Interest Act, and allegations of gross misconduct.
The petitioner contends that Ruto's continued presence on the JSC erodes public confidence in the commission and the broader judiciary, especially as the JSC handles sensitive roles like judicial recruitment (including ongoing processes for Supreme Court, High Court, and other judges). This, they say, compromises the JSC's legitimacy, which depends on strict impartiality and separation from partisan politics.
Isaac Ruto, the former Governor of Bomet County, serves as Vice Chairperson of the JSC. The allegations follow recent public scrutiny, including calls from former JSC officials (such as ex-Vice Chair Macharia Njeru) for Ruto to resign or recuse himself from certain JSC activities, like judge interviews, due to perceived bias.
This development highlights ongoing tensions in Kenya over the independence of constitutional bodies amid perceptions of political influence in judicial processes.
The petition now awaits review by Parliament, which may lead to the formation of a tribunal to investigate if grounds are deemed sufficient. No immediate response from Isaac Ruto or the JSC has been detailed in initial reports, though the matter is likely to spark debate on judicial neutrality and accountability.
