President William Ruto has conferred the rank and dignity of
Senior Counsel on 54 distinguished advocates of the High Court, praising their
exemplary contribution to Kenya’s legal profession and urging them to uphold the
highest standards of integrity, justice, and constitutionalism.
The conferment ceremony, held at State House in Nairobi,
marked one of the most significant recognitions within the country’s legal
fraternity.
In his address, President Ruto lauded the newly elevated
members of the bar, describing the honour as both a milestone and a solemn
responsibility.
“You stand here today because you are beyond question, truly
meritorious of the distinguished title of senior counsel,” he said.
He underscored that the recognition extends beyond prestige,
noting that this is not only a badge of honour, but it is also a solemn
recognition of merit, responsibility and trust.
The President said the appointments reflect Kenya’s
constitutional aspirations and commitment to a fair and credible justice
system.
“It also reflects the constitutional promise of a nation
anchored in the rule of law, protected by rigorous and robust institutions and
guided by a justice system worthy of public confidence,” he affirmed.
Addressing the honorees directly, President Ruto commended
their years of service to the courts, the profession, and the public.
“You have demonstrated exceptional advocacy in our superior
court. You have shaped jurisprudence and reached legal scholarship, mentored
younger members of the bar and served both the profession and society with
admirable devotion,” he said.
Their elevation, he added, is “an affirmation of the
confidence this nation places in you to be guardians of integrity, champions of
justice and stewards of ethical leadership.”
Ruto emphasised that the title of Senior Counsel carries
with it heightened expectations, especially at a time when Kenya continues to
strengthen governance and public accountability.
“With this honour comes an even greater responsibility,” he
noted, calling on them “to safeguard our democracy, to strengthen our
institutions of justice, to support necessary reforms and to help widen the
door of access to justice.”
He also used the occasion to express gratitude to the
Committee on Senior Counsel, which oversees the rigorous vetting process for
the prestigious designation.
“May I also take this opportunity to express my very sincere
appreciation to the committee on senior council for their rigorous, transparent
and principled evaluation process,” the President said.
The newly appointed Senior Counsels now join a select group
within the legal fraternity, entrusted with upholding professionalism,
advancing jurisprudence, and promoting public confidence in the justice system.
Their elevation comes as the government continues to push
for reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice and reinforcing constitutional
governance.
