“Behind every file is a human story: a widow fighting to retain her land, a child seeking protection, a worker pursuing dignity, a survivor of violence seeking justice, or a citizen confronting abuse of power. Compassionate advocacy is therefore not a weakness. It is an essential part of justice.” the CJ emphasized.

📻 Breaking It Down

NAIROBI, Kenya May 25 – Chief Justice Martha Koome has challenged newly admitted advocates to use their legal training to expand access to justice and uphold integrity in the legal profession.

Speaking during the admission of newly qualified lawyers to the Roll of Advocates, CJ Koome urged the lawyers to use their legal training to uplift society, defend constitutional values, and expand access to justice for all by helping bridge the justice gap and extending legal services to ordinary Kenyans, especially the indigent, vulnerable, and marginalised.

Further, the CJ called on the lawyers to blend professional excellence with humanity while being responsive to the needs of vulnerable litigants emphasising that the law must never lose its human face. She asked them to use their knowledge not merely as a tool for commercial success, but as an instrument for social justice and constitutional transformation.

📌 What You Need to Know

“Behind every file is a human story: a widow fighting to retain her land, a child seeking protection, a worker pursuing dignity, a survivor of violence seeking justice, or a citizen confronting abuse of power. Compassionate advocacy is therefore not a weakness. It is an essential part of justice.” the CJ emphasized.

She added: “Your admission to the Roll of Advocates is an induction into a profession that lies at the heart of constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and the administration of justice,”

The Chief Justice reminded the new lawyers that they are now custodians of public trust and are expected to defend rights, protect freedoms, and safeguard the Constitution.

Justice Koome dismissed claims that the legal profession in Kenya is overcrowded, arguing that the country still faces a major justice gap, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

According to the Chief Justice, studies indicate that nearly 19 per cent of Kenyans with justice needs are unable to access legal assistance, while the advocate-to-population ratio remains low outside major urban centres, leaving many communities underserved and without meaningful access to legal representation. She said the country still needs more advocates committed to serving the people.

“The country needs your knowledge, your energy, your integrity, and your commitment to justice and the rule of law,” she told the advocates.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya