Human rights executive sent on compulsory leave for assaulting wife
International Commission for Jurists (ICJ) Kenya executive director Samwel Mohochi has been sent on compulsory leave over allegations he assaulted his wife.
In a press statement on Tuesday, ICJ Kenya chairman Njonjo Mue said Mr Mohochi was asked to proceed on a one month leave to allow for investigaations into the allegations.
Mr Mohochi was charged before Kibera Law courts last Friday for allegedly assaulting his wife Judy Njugu. He is accused of fighting her after they disagreed over a phone cover.
He denied the charges and was released on bond.
Mr Njonjo said given the nature of the allegations, the ICJ council has initiated an inquiry into the circumstances that led to criminal charges being instituted against Mr Mohochi.
According to Mr Njonjo, ICJ has established a fact finding subcommittee to inquire into the veracity of the claims, collect necessary facts and report back in 30 days.
“ICJ Kenya strongly and unequivocally condemns all forms of human right violations and notably gender based violence. It strongly supports accountability measures for such violations,” he said.
He however said the executive director is entitled to a fair trial, including the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“It is emphasized that this action is not a disciplinary action,” he said.
