Martha Koome has urged the newly admitted advocates to utilize their legal expertise in safeguarding the constitution, promoting access to justice and integrity.
When addressing the newly qualified lawyers seeking admission to the Roll of Advocates at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi, the Chief Justice called on the advocates to use legal practice as a political tool for the realization of social justice and constitutional reform and not simply the pursuit of commercial victories.
Justice Koome referred to lawyers as the back stop. She urged them to serve the rural ordinary Kenyan women and children, and other indigent and marginalised groups who lack accessibility to legal representation.
“Human stories lie behind each file: a widow struggling to save her land, a child asking for protection, a worker demanding dignity, a victim of violence seeking justice or a citizen facing abuse of power, ” she said, adding that tender-hearted lobbying was still an integral part of administering justice.
The Chief Justice cautioned the advocates that they are now agents in protection of the constitution democracy and human rights when they are admitted to the profession.
She cast aside the lies which argued that lawyers make up the arms of protecting constitutional democracy, human rights
Justice Koome stated that research has established that most Justice-seekers and almost 19 per cent of Kenyans cannot access legal aid because of inadequate legal representation outside urban areas.
However, she stated that the country needs knowledge, your energy, integrity, and dedication to justice and the rule of law
Justice Koome called for greater synergy between the Bench and the Bar as an instrument to improve the delivery of justice.
She attacked the unnecessary adjournments and warned advocates not to frustrate the court by unpreparedness or tactical postponement.
The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya further called the advocates to be professional, honest, and positive to promote access to justice to the less fortunate Kenyans through pro bono legal service.