Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu has emphasised the importance of a people-centered approach to justice that encourages open dialogue, consultation, reflection, critique, and stakeholder engagement.
She believes that such an approach is vital for enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of judges and judicial officers in delivering justice.
Mwilu made the remarks at the conclusion of the inaugural two-day High Court Human Rights Summit in Nairobi, where she stressed that fostering open communication and information-sharing between judges and other justice stakeholders is crucial for effectively safeguarding and advancing human rights.
“It is important for judges to engage and learn; this will only improve the structure and substance of justice in Kenya,” Mwilu noted.
She highlighted that the High Court has the constitutional mandate to determine whether any right or fundamental freedom in the Bill of Rights has been violated, denied, infringed, or threatened.
“This jurisdiction is both critical and consequential, and I am pleased that this inaugural Summit has provided a platform for dialogue, mutual understanding, idea exchange, and collaboration. These efforts will drive collective action toward protecting and promoting human rights through the court system,” Mwilu said.
She further stated that the judiciary is actively leading discussions on sustaining and deepening human rights practices at the state, community, individual, and societal levels.
The DCJ described the summit as a demonstration of the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding human rights and collaborating to strengthen the foundation of Kenya’s constitutional democracy.
Justice Mwilu concluded by assuring that the Judiciary would intensify its efforts to integrate and enhance human rights in all areas of justice administration and judicial decision-making, for the benefit of the people of Kenya.
