NAKURU, KENYA — Tensions between the bench and the bar in Nakuru have hit boiling point. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Rift Valley Branch, alongside its Nakuru Chapter, has officially announced a full boycott of Nakuru Court No. 4, targeting Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. F. Mutuku.
The move follows a viral video recorded during court proceedings on July 22, 2026, which has sent shockwaves through the legal fraternity and sparked widespread public debate.
The Catalyst: “Forced to Work in Nakuru”
In the recorded proceedings, Hon. Mutuku reportedly made remarks that advocates found deeply demeaning to the legal profession. What ignited the strongest backlash, however, was her statement on record claiming she was “forced to work in Nakuru.”
The LSK argues that such statements undermine public confidence in the judicial process, contending that a judicial officer expressing reluctance to serve in a station cannot be trusted to handle litigants’ cases impartially.
Adding fuel to the fire, the incident unfolded during a nationwide LSK boycott. Despite clear directives that matters should not be dismissed during this period, the magistrate allegedly pressed on with proceedings.
“When a judicial officer publicly states they are serving under duress in a station, it calls into question the fundamental administration of justice for every litigant before that court.”
— LSK Rift Valley Position
Escalation: LSK Takes Direct Action
The response from the local bar was swift and decisive. Following a resolution passed by the Nakuru Chapter:
- Chamber Protest: Advocates organized a formal delegation to present themselves at the magistrate’s chambers on July 23 to directly communicate their position and demand her immediate departure.
- Full Boycott Instituted: The Branch resolved to freeze all appearances before Court No. 4.
- Duration: The boycott will remain active until Hon. Mutuku is transferred from the station and a suitable replacement is posted.
Formal Complaint to the Chief Justice
In a joint letter dated July 23, 2026, addressed directly to Chief Justice Martha Koome and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), LSK leaders formally petitioned for administrative intervention.
The statement was issued and signed by:
- Aston Muchela — Chair, LSK Rift Valley Branch
- Wangari Mwangi — Chair, LSK Nakuru Chapter
Copies of the petition have also been dispatched to the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, the Presiding Judge and Chief Magistrate of the Nakuru Law Courts, and the LSK Secretary/CEO.
What Comes Next?
With Court No. 4 effectively stalled, eyes now turn to the Judicial Service Commission and the Chief Justice to see how rapidly the judiciary moves to restore court operations and address the grievances raised by the bar.
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