Chief Justice Urges New Lawyers to Be Bold, Creative, and Innovative in Their Work

By Collins Wanzallah

Chief Justice Martha Koome has encouraged newly admitted advocates to transcend the traditional boundaries of litigation by adopting a bold, creative, and innovative approach to their legal work.

Speaking at the Milimani Law Courts during the admission ceremony of 70 newly qualified lawyers to the Roll of Advocates, the Chief Justice urged them to embrace a Multi-Door approach to justice. She highlighted the importance of utilising alternative dispute resolution mechanisms such as mediation and Alternative Justice Systems (AJS), and to also engage in public interest litigation.

She explained that by doing so, the advocates would contribute actively towards realising the aspirations of the Constitution, particularly in promoting social justice and good governance.

The Chief Justice also called on the advocates to safeguard and promote the vision of the 2010 Constitution, which she described as transformative at its core. She emphasised that the Constitution envisages a society rooted in social justice, good governance, and the full realisation of human rights.

“Today, you join a noble profession that stands as a pillar of justice, a custodian of the rule of law, and a vital instrument for social transformation. As you join the Bar, you are not merely stepping into the practice of law. You are being called to serve as social engineers,” said the Chief Justice.

She further explained that advocates hold a unique position in driving societal change, using their legal knowledge to challenge the status quo where necessary, promote rights, and facilitate constructive dialogue within the community.

“The 2010 Constitution was born out of the desire for change—a profound shift from impunity to accountability, from exclusion to inclusion, and from inequality to justice. It enshrines the principles of equity, human dignity, and the protection of vulnerable and marginalised communities,” CJ Koome said.

She added, “As advocates, you are tasked with ensuring that the law is not merely a set of rules but a living instrument that fosters fairness and equity in our society.”

The Chief Justice also reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to collaborating with the legal profession in advancing justice and upholding the rule of law. She stated that the Judiciary’s mission, as outlined in the ‘Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ)’, aligns with the principles of the 2010 Constitution.

Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Winfridah Mokaya, echoed the Chief Justice’s sentiments and urged the new advocates to instil the value of integrity from the onset of their careers.

“Do not succumb to the tempting yet short-lived allure of unethical practices. Honesty does indeed pay. I have no doubt that the rigorous training you have undergone equips you to contribute to the vigilance required for the benefit of the rule of law and constitutionalism,” CRJ Mokaya advised.