By Collins Wanzallah
Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged newly admitted advocates to embrace a broader and more innovative approach to the legal profession. Speaking at the Milimani Law Courts during the admission of 70 new lawyers to the Roll of Advocates, she encouraged them to go beyond traditional litigation and engage in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation and Alternative Justice Systems (AJS).
She also called on them to participate in public interest litigation, emphasizing that these efforts contribute to the realization of the Constitution’s aspirations for social justice and good governance.
The Chief Justice highlighted the transformative nature of the 2010 Constitution, which envisions a society rooted in social justice, good governance, and the full realization of human rights. She stressed that as members of the Bar, the advocates are now custodians of the rule of law and pivotal agents of social transformation. Koome challenged them to use their legal expertise to challenge injustice, promote rights, and foster constructive dialogue within society.
Koome reiterated the Constitution’s focus on equity, human dignity, and protecting vulnerable communities, noting that advocates are responsible for ensuring the law remains a living tool for fairness and justice. The judiciary’s “Social Transformation through Access to Justice” (STAJ) mission aligns with these principles, emphasizing collaboration between the legal profession and the courts in advancing justice.
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya also addressed the new advocates, urging them to uphold integrity in their legal careers and avoid the pitfalls of unethical practices. She emphasized that honesty and ethical conduct are vital to upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism
