The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has reported an alleged attempt to extort its leadership using court processes, leading to the arrest and arraignment of a Nairobi-based blogger at the JKIA Law Courts.
In a statement issued on Thursday, KWS said it had noted with grave concern the conduct of Mr. Francis Awino, who identifies himself as a blogger and former president of Bunge la Mwananchi, after he presented himself to the Service with court documents in which he was named as the petitioner.
According to the wildlife agency, preliminary findings indicate that Mr. Awino allegedly sought to invoke judicial proceedings and the threat of adverse publicity as a means of intimidation, blackmail and extortion directed at the Office of the Director General.
KWS said such conduct, if established, “is contrary to the law and offends the national values and principles of governance, including integrity, accountability and the rule of law,” as provided for under Article 10 of the Constitution.
Following the developments, the matter was reported to law enforcement agencies, resulting in Mr. Awino’s arrest. He was subsequently arraigned before the JKIA Law Court, where he appeared before Magistrate Njeri Thuku. The case is now pending further direction by the court.
“The Kenya Wildlife Service respects the independence of the Judiciary and shall refrain from commenting on the merits of the case before court,” the statement said.
KWS reiterated that while Article 48 of the Constitution guarantees the right of access to justice, the right must be exercised in good faith.
“The use of court processes, or the threat thereof, for ulterior purposes such as blackmail, harassment, or personal gain constitutes an abuse of judicial process, which undermines the administration of justice,” the Service said.
The agency further raised concern that ongoing inquiries suggest the individual may be linked to a coordinated group allegedly engaging in similar conduct, targeting officers in both the public and private sectors.
According to KWS, the group is suspected of using intimidation, vexatious litigation and orchestrated public campaigns to unlawfully obtain financial or other benefits.
“KWS will not yield to intimidation or unlawful pressure,” the statement said, adding that the Service remains committed to protecting public institutions in line with its constitutional and statutory mandate under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act.
The Service cautioned members of the public that misuse of judicial processes, extortion, intimidation and cyber harassment are offences under Kenyan law and will be addressed firmly and in accordance with due process.
KWS reaffirmed its commitment to constitutionalism, integrity, transparency and respect for the rule of law as the matter continues to be handled within the confines of the legal system.
