Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged newly admitted advocates to champion the expeditious delivery of justice by avoiding practices that contribute to case backlogs and delays in courts.
Speaking during the admission of 920 lawyers to the Roll of Advocates, CJ Koome called on them to abandon practices that have historically hindered timely resolution of cases.
She urged them to abandon unnecessary adjournments, technical manoeuvres lacking substance, and interlocutory applications designed to derail hearings.
CJ Koome added that the constitutional call to focus on substantive justice, embrace alternative dispute resolution and community-based mechanisms, and help transform the justice system toward efficiency, fairness, and innovation.
Justice Koome challenged the new advocates to use their skills in defending the vulnerable, including the poor, victims of gender-based violence, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
“Offer pro bono services when you can. Stand firm against injustice, discrimination, and exploitation. The legal profession was never meant to be purely transactional; it is an instrument for social transformation,” she said.
The CJ stressed the importance of personal ethics, noting that an advocate’s conduct inside and outside the courtroom defines their character.
She urged them to strengthen the Bench–Bar relationship, describing it as the backbone of a functional justice system.
“The quality of justice in our country improves when the Bench and Bar work collaboratively, guided by mutual respect and a shared purpose,” she added.
CJ Koome, however, expressed concern over declining professional conduct in public spaces, particularly on social media.
She warned that the greatest threat to the dignity of the legal profession today lies not only in courtroom misconduct but also in the tone, content, and behaviour exhibited online.
“When advocates insult judges, abuse colleagues, engage in public theatrics, or trivialize serious legal matters for entertainment or clout, the reputation and esteem of the profession is diminished,” she cautioned.
CJ Koome urged the new lawyers to carry themselves with humility, discipline, and responsibility, upholding professional, personal, and social ethics both in courtrooms and in the digital public square.
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Chief Justice Martha Koome among other Judiciary leaders during an admission to the Bar event on November 20, 2025 / HANDOUT
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu congratulated the advocates, reminding them to honour the oath they had taken and let it guide their professional journey.
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya urged the lawyers to be ambassadors of justice and uphold the values enshrined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution.
“Let fidelity to the rule of law be the guiding light in your career. Guard against actions that amount to miscarriage of justice. Never forget that there is nothing honourable where justice is absent,” she said.
Law students admitted to the Bar on November 20, 2025 / HANDOUT
