Senior Kenyan judge arrested in graft probe

Kenya's deputy chief justice, the country's second highest judge, was arrested today on corruption charges.

Philomena Mwilu is one of seven members of the Supreme Court, and was among the judges who nullified President Uhuru Kenyatta initial election win in August 2017, leading to the controversial holding of a fresh vote.

Kenya's director of public prosecutions Noordin Haji told journalists there was evidence she had abused her office for personal gain and accepted money as a gift in dubious circumstances.

She is also accused of failing to pay taxes and executing a security belonging to the Imperial Bank -- which collapsed in 2015 -- under false pretences.

"This afternoon, I informed Chief Justice David Maraga of my decision to grant consent for the arrest and prosecution of the deputy chief justice, Lady Justice, Philomena Mbete Mwilu, on criminal charges," said Kenya's director of public prosecutions Noordin Haji "This decision has not been taken lightly," he added, saying "the dignity and independence of the judiciary is dear to us."