The Supreme Court of Kenya has received the African Bar Association’s Medal of Merit in recognition of its exemplary leadership in advancing transformative justice and entrenching constitutionalism across Africa.
The award, which celebrated the Court’s role in shaping progressive jurisprudence and reinforcing public trust in democratic governance across the continent, was presented by Vice President Charles Keara on behalf of the African Bar Association (AfBA) President High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark, during a ceremony at the Supreme Court in Nairobi.
Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as both a celebration of Kenya’s democratic journey and a reminder of the Judiciary’s sacred duty to uphold the rule of law.
She also noted that the award affirmed the country’s continued commitment to integrity, fairness, and excellence in judicial service.
Further, CJ Koome reaffirmed the court’s commitment to nurturing jurisprudence that strengthens democracy, protects human rights and fosters public trust in the rule of law.
“As the apex court, we will continue to serve steadfastly in pursuit of truth and justice, and to ensure that our Constitution remains a living document for all Kenyans,” assured Koome.
Notably, AfBA praised the court’s landmark rulings, including the 2017 presidential election nullification and the 2022 presidential petition decisions, observing that these judgments set a new benchmark for judicial independence and electoral integrity in Africa.
In this regard, the CJ acknowledged the teamwork behind the Court’s success, commending judges, registrars, law clerks, and administrative staff for their tireless efforts, especially during the tense 14-day election petition period.
Importantly, she emphasized that such dedication had strengthened public confidence in the Judiciary.
In addition, Koome further stated that the award underscored Africa’s ability to develop its own homegrown legal philosophies, saying that African courts are not merely followers of global justice but leaders in shaping indigenous jurisprudence that reflects Kenya’s realities and aspirations.
Consequently, Koome expressed deep gratitude to the AfBA for the recognition, terming it both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the Judiciary’s sacred responsibility to uphold integrity, fairness and service to the people.
“We are humbled that the work we do out of duty, guided by conscience and fidelity to the Constitution, has found resonance beyond our borders,” she stated, asserting that the award affirms the collective effort of judges, registrars, law clerks and administrative staff who have served with diligence and discipline to make justice accessible to all.
Likewise, the CJ reaffirmed the Supreme Court’s commitment to nurturing jurisprudence that strengthens democracy, protects human dignity, and inspires trust in the rule of law.
She also urged African judiciaries to remain steadfast in promoting justice and constitutionalism throughout the continent.
Meanwhile, the African Bar Association, which represents more than 3,000 legal professionals across the continent, hailed the Supreme Court of Kenya as a pillar of democratic resilience and a model for judicial excellence in Africa.
By Lucy Mwende and Mary Ndanu
