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Lenaola’s lawyers call the claims false and demand a retraction, while the Judiciary says previous complaints were dismissed and warns against undermining judicial independence.
Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-16 12:30 EAT. A public feud has broken out between Supreme Court judge Isaac Lenaolaand Captain (ret.) Kung’u Muigai, a cousin of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, after Muigai posted a viral TikTok video accusing the judge of taking a KSh1 million bribe in a decades-old case involving a firm and a bank.
Accusation: Muigai alleged Lenaola accepted the bribe in a supermarket parking lot before ruling in the bank’s favour.
Judge’s response: Through his lawyers, Lenaola dismissed the allegations as “false, malicious, and defamatory”and demanded Muigai delete the video, issue a public apology, and cease further claims.
Viral impact: The video had garnered 6,200+ likes and 1,700 reposts before the demand letter was issued.
Lenaola has served in the judiciary for over 22 years, including on Kenya’s Supreme Court.
The Judiciary spokesperson, Paul Ndemo, confirmed that similar complaints had previously been reviewed and dismissed by the Judicial Service Commission for lack of evidence.
Officials emphasised that unfavourable court decisions do not constitute proof of corruption.
Isaac Lenaola’s legal team: Accused Muigai of a “calculated scheme to embarrass the judge” and vowed legal action if demands are unmet.
Captain (ret.) Kung’u Muigai: Stood by his allegations, retaining former Law Society of Kenya president Nelson Havi as his lawyer.
Judiciary officials: Urged respect for judicial independence and warned against politically motivated attacks on judges.
Judiciary credibility: Raises questions about balancing free expression with protection against defamation of public officials.
Political undertones: Links to the Uhuru Kenyatta family could inflame perceptions of political interference in judicial matters.
Legal action: Possible civil or criminal defamation suits if Muigai refuses to retract his claims.
Whether Muigai retracts the allegations or faces court action.
Judiciary’s stance on public criticism and potential disciplinary reviews.
Impact on public trust in Kenya’s judicial system ahead of high-stakes 2027 elections.
