The days of judicial immunity for bad behavior are numbered. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced a sweeping set of reforms aimed at cracking down on "minor misconduct" among judicial officers. The move signals a cultural shift in the corridors of justice, where tardiness and discourtesy have long been tolerated.

Under the new "Judicial Accountability Framework" unveiled today, judges and magistrates will now face tangible penalties for infractions that do not warrant removal from office but erode public confidence. These include habitual lateness, use of abusive language in court, and failure to deliver rulings within statutory timelines.

Beyond "Gross Misconduct"

"For too long, we have only had the nuclear option—removal from office," explained a JSC commissioner. "This left a gap where petty tyranny and laziness went unpunished." The new disciplinary measures range from formal reprimands and suspension of salary increments to mandatory training on judicial etiquette.

• The Complaints: The JSC reported receiving over 800 complaints from the public in 2025 alone, with 60% citing rudeness or unexplained adjournments.
• The Mechanism: A new ombudsman unit will be established to fast-track these "minor" complaints, ensuring they are resolved within 30 days rather than languishing for years.

Restoring Faith

Legal experts have welcomed the move as long overdue. "A judge who insults counsel or shows up at 11 AM for a 9 AM hearing undermines the rule of law just as much as one who takes a bribe," said LSK President Eric Theuri. The reforms are set to take effect immediately, putting the entire bench on notice.