President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged the nation’s seven newly appointed Court of Appeal judges to serve with fidelity, integrity, and without fear or favor.
Kenyatta asked the judges to deliver justice in a “speedy, accessible, and consistent manner” shortly after they were sworn in at State House in Nairobi on Wednesday.
The seven appellate judges, including lawyer Gachoka Paul Mwaniki and High Court judges Achode Lydia Awino, Ochieng Frederick Andago, Mativo John Mutinga, Ngenye Grace Wangui, Kimaru Luka Kiprotich, and Aroni Abida Ali, were sworn in by Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi.
“Remember that Kenyans expect more from the judiciary now than ever before as you take your seats on the bench.”
Kenyans want a judicial system that deliveers justice without fear or favor, in a timely, accessible, and consistent manner.
“Kenyans expect the judiciary to exercise the authority that they have delegated with the utmost integrity and in keeping with the sacred principle of furthering the national good,” Kenyatta said.
President Kenyatta emphasized the importance of the judiciary playing its role effectively, noting that the appointment and subsequent swearing-in of the judges come at a unique time when the country is preparing for the upcoming general elections.
“Today, we commemorate an important aspect of our constitutional order and democracy by swearing in seven new Court of Appeal judges.”
“This reaffirms our commitment to the Rule of Law and the pillars that underpin our vibrant democracy,” Kenyatta said.
Simultaneously, the Head of State congratulated 18 advocates who were elevated to the rank and title of Senior Counsel.
“To the Senior Counsel members, thank you for your significant and inspiring service to the nation.”
“On behalf of a grateful nation, I once again express our congratulations for distinguished service in the legal and public service arenas,” President Kenyatta said.
The 18 were bestowed with the coveted legal title on July 20, 2020, in recognition of their exemplary service to the nation in the legal profession, as well as their contributions to law and development.
The conferment ceremony was held today due to the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 containment measures.
Former Vice President Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, Charles Waweru Gatonye, Rautta Athiambo, Fredrick Ngatia, Mohammed Nyaoga, Albert Mumma, Beautah Alukhava Siganga, Kiragu Kimani, Judy Thongori, Zehrabanu Janmohamed, Wilfred Nderitu, John M. Ohaga, and Kioko Kilukumi were among those who received awards.
Patricia Mande Nyaundi, Dorcas Agik Odhong Oduor, Abdikadir Hussein Mohamed, Paul Otiende Amollo, and John Mugwimi Chigiti were among the others.
“To you, all, may you continue to be an inspiration for future generations, and may you faithfully serve your nation,” President Kenyatta said.
Among the senior government officials in attendance were Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua, Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki, as well as Supreme and Court of Appeal judges.
