Hassan Joho Accused of Defying Court Orders in New Petition
Mining and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho could face legal challenges once more, following allegations of contempt of court raised against him in a newly filed case.
According to a petition obtained by Skynews.co.ke, Joho, alongside Attorney General Dorcas Oduor and another individual, is accused of ignoring a conservatory order issued by the Environment and Land Court in Mombasa.
The order, dated July 17, suspended the government’s decision to revoke the petitioner’s trading license. However, the petitioner claims that despite multiple requests, Joho has declined to provide movement permits and approval for exporting existing stockpiles.
The petitioner argues that their license remains valid until another court order is issued, accusing the government of deliberately obstructing operations, forcing them to seek further legal recourse.
“In the circumstances, it is in the interest of, and justice demands that the application filed herewith be heard expeditiously, and the orders sought therein be granted,” reads part of the petition.
Filed on November 21, 2024, the document grants Joho and his co-accused a 14-day window to respond to the allegations.
“Take further notice that if you do not appear in person or through your legal representatives, the matter shall continue in your absence notwithstanding,” another section of the petition states.
This legal issue arises just weeks after Joho narrowly avoided a jail sentence for a similar case involving contempt of court.
How Joho Avoided Jail in 2019
In 2019, a Mombasa steel tycoon claimed ownership of a valuable piece of land but accused a former MCA and the county government of harassment. The court issued conservatory orders to prevent any interference with the property while the case was pending.
Despite this, the Mombasa County government allegedly defied the court’s directives, leading to a new application seeking to summon Joho and the county lands chief officer. The petitioner demanded Joho’s imprisonment for six months over the violation of the court order.
Joho’s Controversial Remarks
Meanwhile, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna revealed that Joho might also be summoned to the Senate over alleged threats to Kenyans.
At the launch of the DEVKI Iron Processing Project in Manga, Taita Taveta County, on December 3, Joho criticised Kenyans who frequently attack the Kenya Kwanza administration online. He warned that the government would act against individuals who consistently undermine its development agenda.
Joho dismissed social media criticism, claiming it hinders national progress and labeled government critics as unpatriotic. Additionally, he condemned those doubting Raila Odinga’s chances of securing the African Union Commission chairmanship.
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Hassan Joho Accused of Defying Court Orders in New Petition
