Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji has explained the circumstances under which he ordered the arrest and prosecution of Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu.

Haji said his office had gathered enough evidence to show that Mwilu had abused her office for personal gain. ‘

The DPP told journalists that the decision to charge the Deputy Chief Justice was not made lightly and was informed by the need to ensure judicial officers comply with the highest standards of integrity.

“The evidence in our possession, reveals that Lady Justice Mwilu abused her office for personal gain, accepted a gift in the form of money in circumstances which undermined public confidence in the integrity of her office, obtained execution of a security belonging to Imperial Bank Limited now in receivership by false pretense, unlawful failure to pay taxes, and conducted herself in disregard of the law."

“This decision has not been taken lightly but it is the right decision under the law. Most of us at DPP's office are officers of the court and the independence of the Judiciary is dear to us,” Haji stated at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

The DPP added that in light of the person involved, he had informed the Chief Justice, David Maraga, as a sign of respect and professional collaboration between the Judiciary and the prosecutors.