Court of Appeal President Justice Daniel Musinga on Tuesday rejected claims that he sent a university student leader to solicit a bribe of $6,750 (approximately Sh872,437) from a litigant in exchange for influencing a case outcome.
Appearing in court as a key witness, Justice Musinga categorically denied any involvement in the alleged scandal, which has cast a shadow over the judiciary’s integrity. The senior judge told Milimani Law Courts that he was shocked to learn that his name had been dragged into a bribery attempt involving Anthony Muchui Manyara, a former student leader turned activist.
“I do not know the accused person, and I have never interacted with him in any professional or personal capacity,” Justice Musinga stated emphatically during his testimony.
“I have never sent anyone to collect money on my behalf in any matter. These allegations are not only false but are also aimed at tarnishing my reputation and that of the judiciary.”
Trial magistrate Dolphina Alego heard that Mr. Manyara allegedly approached Ms. Mary Wagaki Muthumbi, a litigant with a pending civil appeal, claiming he could “fix the bench” to ensure a favorable ruling—purportedly on behalf of the judge.
He allegedly requested $5,500 for Justice Musinga and an additional $1,250 as his own facilitation fee.
However, the alleged scheme fell apart when Ms. Muthumbi reported the incident to Chief Justice Martha Koome in November 2023. Her formal complaint triggered an investigation, leading to the charges against Mr. Manyara.
In court, Justice Musinga reaffirmed that he had no knowledge of the case involving Ms. Muthumbi and had never played any role in appointing a bench for it.
“I was informed by the Chief Justice about a letter received from a litigant claiming that my name had been mentioned in a bribery attempt. That came as a complete surprise to me,” he told the court.
The judge described the allegations as defamatory and damaging, underscoring the seriousness with which he treats the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
His appearance in court as a witness also signaled a rare public move by a high-ranking judge to defend his name and office against corruption claims.
Mr. Manyara, on his part, denied the charges and insisted he had never met the judge. Representing himself without a lawyer, he informed the court that he had no questions to ask the judge during cross-examination.
The case continues to draw public interest, with legal observers viewing Justice Musinga’s firm rebuttal as a necessary stand against attempts to undermine judicial independence through false associations and alleged corruption schemes.
