Two powerful ministers are allegedly plotting to engineer removal of Chief Justice David Maraga, it has now emerged.
In-depth investigations by the Star reveals that the two are behind most of frustrations targeting the CJ, including embarrassment in state functions.
On Monday, Maraga hinted at a plot to kick him out of office, citing incidents where he has been embarrassed while trying to gain entry to State House.
“Some CSs [Cabinet Secretaries] are saying I will go before the year ends. Kumbe hii Kenya ina wenyewe [apparently Kenya has its owners]?" Judge Maraga said, flashing a wry smile intermittently.
Senior judges told the Star on Monday the Cabinet Secretaries are unhappy that Maraga has refused to dance to their tune.
"They asked Maraga to remove certain judges they consider hostile to the government and keep issuing orders blocking government projects. When Maraga refused they started saying the CJ is a stumbling block," a Court of Appeal judge said.
The ministers who are said do be close to President Uhuru Kenyatta, are said to have ordered immigration officials to force Maraga to clear with the executive before jetting out.
During his Monday's press conference, Maraga confirmed that he's denied access to VIP lounge, forcing him to usher in his guests under difficult circumstances.
The goverment cut Judiciary budget by Sh2.5 billion, causing the latest standoff. The court has since stopped implementation of the order.
While it's not clear why the executive is at loggerheads with the Judiciary, President Uhuru Kenyatta has in the past warned of possible retaliation following controversial 2017 nullification of his victory.