LSK President Calls for Strict Enforcement of Court Orders to Ensure Justice

By Robert Mutasi 

President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Faith Odhiambo has called on the judiciary to take a firm stand against government agencies that fail to follow court orders.

Speaking during the legal conference, Odhiambo expressed her concern about the growing tendency of government institutions to ignore court orders, which she said undermines the rule of law in Kenya.

Odhiambo emphasized that the judicial department has the responsibility to ensure that its orders are respected, while urging the courts to take decisive action against those who violate the law.

"We must take that responsibility to ensure that court orders are obeyed, and either refuse to give an audience to government agencies that refuse to comply or declare themselves to the law even when they issue those orders," she said.

Her remarks come amid frustration among Kenyans about the indifference of some government agencies for ignoring court orders.

Odhiambo noted that refusing to obey court orders weakens the authority of the court and brings balance between the three branches of government.

"If the courts say they have teeth and don't lock them up to show their power, we will continue to suffer," she warned.

The president of LSK pointed out that unless the judiciary shows its power by holding government officials accountable for disobedience, this trend will continue, further eroding public confidence in the legal system.

Odhiambo went further and suggested that the court should consider imposing strict sanctions on government officials and institutions that defy their orders. This, she said, would help restore respect for the judiciary and ensure that the principle of separation of powers is maintained.

"Unless our courts will also be serious and decide to show their teeth to those who disobey court orders or refuse to give them any order until they remove their contempt, then you will start to see changes in this country." Said Odhiambo.

Her call for action emphasizes the need for the court to protect its role as an independent and impartial arbiter of disputes.

She believes that taking strong action can prevent future violations and promote compliance.

Odhiambo's remarks have sparked a debate about the enforcement of court orders in Kenya, with many legal experts supporting her call for a tough stance against those who violate the law.