Queens Counsel Qureshi will only handle Mwilu case: DPP

British advocate Khawar Qureshi, who was appointed by the Director of Public Prosecution, will only handle the corruption case facing Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu.

According to the DPP Noordin Haji, his office needs an independent person to deal with the case.

“Owing to the relationship between the ODPP and Judiciary, it was crucial to have a person not clouded by politics,” he told the Senate Legal Affairs Committee on Wednesday.

Haji reiterated his confidence in local prosecutors but said for this specific matter, he needed an ‘independent mind’.

He added that after the meeting with Senate team, his office would release names of three Kenyans who will work on the Mwilu case alongside Qureshi.

The DPP further noted that the move to hire a foreigner is not uncommon as other Commonwealth countries have a similar practice.

He added that a Gazette notice would be released later on to explain the role of Qureshi.

On his sentiments in regards to State officials facing cases in court, the DPP said they are planning to move to the Court of Appeal for further interpretation of the Constitution.

According to him, government officers charged in court should not be in office until the case against them is complete.

“My opinion is that once you are suspect you should step aside, and you shouldn’t be paid any salary, if you will be found to be innocent then you will be paid lump sum,” he added.