The Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court Martha Koome, on Monday presided over the swearing-in of Mr John Cox Lorionokou as Registrar and Ms Agatha W. Wahome as Assistant Registrar of Political Parties at the Supreme Court of Kenya.
The two officers took the Oath of Office, pledging to uphold justice, integrity, and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
The Chief Justice, while administering the oath, commended the officers for their commitment to public service and urged them to execute their mandate with impartiality and fidelity to the constitution.
“Today marks a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s trust in institutions that safeguard democracy and justice. The office you now hold is one of integrity and service to the people of Kenya,” said Koome.
She further reminded them that their roles are central in entrenching transparency within political processes and strengthening the rule of law.
Koome lauded the two officers for their dedication and urged them to uphold the highest ethical standards in their new roles.
“The Judiciary expects nothing less than integrity, diligence, and respect for the constitution. Leadership in public office is service, not privilege,” she said.
The Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou expressed deep gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him, describing the appointment as “a solemn responsibility that he accepts with humility and dedication”.
“I take office at a time when conversations about justice, equality, and human rights remain at the heart of our national life,” he said. “Our citizens deserve a system that not only protects their rights but also restores trust and integrity in public institutions.”
Lorionokou emphasized that his tenure will focus on enhancing accountability and ensuring that the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties remains an impartial arbiter that promotes inclusivity and fairness in Kenya’s democratic landscape.
He noted that the role of the Registrar goes beyond administrative duties, underscoring its importance in nurturing a society that values fairness, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law.
“The promotion and protection of rights is not the task of one individual but a collective responsibility. Together, we must nurture a society that upholds justice and inclusivity,” he added.
Lorionokou further pledged to work closely with state institutions, civil society, and communities to strengthen public trust and ensure that political processes reflect the will and aspirations of the Kenyan people.
“Our commitment is to ensure that every citizen feels represented, respected, and heard within the democratic framework,” he affirmed.
Assistant Registrar of Political Parties Ms Agatha Wahome echoed similar sentiments, vowing to support the Registrar in deepening institutional reforms that promote gender equity, transparency, and accountability in the political sector.
“We stand ready to serve with openness and fairness, ensuring that the rule of law guides every decision and that the voices of all Kenyans especially the marginalised are respected,” Ms Wahome said.
She pledged to champion inclusivity, particularly the participation of women and youth in political processes, as a cornerstone of democratic growth.
The newly sworn-in officers also paid tribute to the leadership of the judiciary and the Office of the Chief Justice for their continuous guidance and stewardship in maintaining integrity within the justice system. They vowed to uphold professionalism and constitutional values in executing their duties.
Lorionokou, who has served in various capacities within the justice sector, reaffirmed his commitment to public service, stating that the journey ahead will not be easy, but through collective effort, together with the leader leadership can strengthen our institutions as beacons of hope, justice, and fairness.
He called upon all Kenyans to remain steadfast in supporting the rule of law, noting that accountability and inclusivity are vital to sustaining democracy.
“Defending justice means standing in difficult spaces, but with unity and courage, we can build a peaceful, just, and prosperous nation,” he said.
The swearing-in ceremony, attended by senior judicial officers, representatives from political parties, and members of the legal fraternity, underscored the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions that support democracy, human rights, and governance.
Others who took Oath of Office were Ms Claris Awuor Ogangah as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and Mr Billy Komintai Konchelah as a Member of the National Heroes Council.
By Mary Ndanu
