Chief Justice Martha Koome presided over the swearing-in of 64 new magistrates and 19 Small Claims Court adjudicators in a ceremony at the Supreme Court, attended by the Director, Kenya Judiciary Academy (KJA), Hon. Dr Smokin Wanjala, among other senior Judiciary officials.
In her speech, she said, “This calling implores that you dedicate your life to justice, integrity, professionalism & service. It also places you firmly in the path of constitutional defense as carriers of hope and social cohesion.”
“A life on the bench that you are embarking on demands commitment to civility and collegiality, intellectual curiosity, and unflinching independence.”
Regarding the speedy and efficient administration of justice, CJ Koome encouraged the new magistrates to be focused and hardworking. She said, “we therefore expect you to be the most engaged participants in our quest to eliminate backlog and delays in the delivery of justice. You must work to meet our target of ensuring that no case remains unresolved in a Trial Court for more than 3 years.”
“We also expect you to be the defenders of our “no adjournment” policy that is geared towards ensuring that matters are heard to conclusion once set down for hearing.”
