Nairobi — Katiba Institute has filed an urgent application seeking to have economist David Ndii and President William Ruto's advisor Harriet Chigai cited for contempt of court over the alleged defiance of High Court orders issued on January 22, 2026.

In the application filed at the High Court in Nairobi, Katiba Institute argues that the two willfully ignored clear court directives that barred the implementation and public promotion of aspects of the government's economic and policy agenda that are currently under legal challenge. The petitioners contend that despite being fully aware of the orders, the respondents proceeded to act in a manner that undermined the authority of the court.

According to Katiba Institute, the contempt arises from continued public actions and statements that allegedly sought to advance or legitimise the disputed policy measures, contrary to the express orders suspending their implementation pending the determination of the case. The institute says such conduct amounts to a blatant disregard of the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent for constitutional governance.

The public interest lobby group is asking the court to find Ndii and Chigai in contempt, impose appropriate sanctions, and issue further directions to ensure compliance with court orders. Katiba Institute maintains that the case is critical to safeguarding judicial authority and reaffirming that all state officers and advisors, regardless of position, are bound by the Constitution and court rulings.