Chief Justice Martha Koome delivered a Public Lecture on Social Justice
The Chief Justice of Kenya, Hon. Lady Justice Martha Koome, on Wednesday 15th November presided over a presitigious event that brought together a public lecture on 'Social Transformation Through Access to Justice' and the launch of a book titled 'The Supreme Court Settles the Law ' This dual event featured insights from CJ Koome, the author Canon Dr. Wamuti Ndegwa, and various academic and legal luminaries
Hon. CJ Koome emphasized the critical role the Supreme Court plays in advancing and protecting human rights in Kenya. She underscored the transformative nature of the Constitution, a document rooted in the aspirations of the people for a democratic, just, and equal society. Koome stressed the Judiciary's responsibility in promoting social justice through adjudication and highlighted the challenges of access to the formal justice system for many Kenyans.
CJ Koome further stated that social justice goes beyond legal applications; it encompasses the recognition and protection of human dignity, equality, and diversity. Social justice involves redistributing resources to address historical injustices and empowering marginalized groups. The CJ underscored the need for a paradigm shift in the spaces occupied, emphasizing that the Constitution should be a catalyst for social reforms.
Justice Koome commended the author Dr. Wamuti and co-editor Dr. Mutuma for their pioneering work, challenging others to explore different aspects of Kenyan law. The book, a scholarly analysis of the Supreme Court's jurisprudence, is a critical study emerging 12 years post the court's establishment. It explores how the court has settled legal principles and serves as an essential resource for students, legal practitioners, and the broader academic community.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kiama, expressed the University of Nairobi's commitment to research initiatives that transcend boundaries and foster innovation. He applauded Justice Koome's relentless pursuit of social justice, noting its potential to eliminate social inequalities envisioned by the 2010 Constitution. Prof. Kiama also commended Dr. Wamuti, acknowledging the book's significant scholarly contribution that would enrich the university's libraries and benefit students and researchers.
Ndegwa explained the book's title, 'The Supreme Court Settles the Law' emphasizing the finality and binding nature of Supreme Court decisions. He encouraged lawyers to refer to its principles in court, highlighting the court's role in settling legal precedents. The book unravels inequalities in the system, providing insights into modifications made by the Apex Court to address these injustices. Volume One and Volume Two of the book were launched, with the presence of esteemed individuals such as retired Lady Justice Effie Owuor.
In conclusion, the joint event featuring CJ Martha Koome's public lecture and the launch of 'The Supreme Court Settles the Law' marks a pivotal moment in Kenya's legal discourse. The discussions on social transformation, access to justice, and the unveiling of a scholarly work provide a platform for further exploration of the evolving jurisprudence of the Supreme Court and its impact on shaping a just and equitable society.
