DCJ Mwilu Urges Judges to Foster Stakeholder Engagement for Effective Justice Delivery

Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu has called on judges to actively engage with stakeholders to enhance the administration of justice and promote human rights in Kenya.

The event also highlighted the Judiciary’s role as a critical player in meeting Kenya’s international human rights commitments and addressing challenges to rights enjoyment.

Speaking during the summit the DCJ emphasized the importance of dialogue, consultation and collaboration in building judicial capacity to deliver justice effectively.

The summit, held under the theme “Upholding Human Rights in a Changing Kenya,” coincided with International Human Rights Day and focused on human rights as solutions and transformative tools for societal progress.

“The people-centred justice approach under our institutional blueprint, Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ), highlights the role of a judge as not only an adjudicator but also a justice facilitator, connector and promoter,” DCJ Mwilu said.

Mwilu lauded the summit for providing a platform to foster dialogue, exchange ideas and collaborate on strategies to strengthen human rights protection through judicial work.

The DCJ stressed the significance of the High Court’s jurisdiction under Article 165(3)(b) of the Constitution, which empowers it to address violations of fundamental rights and freedoms.

She noted that this role is pivotal in safeguarding constitutional democracy and ensuring justice for all, especially the marginalized and vulnerable.

“The Judiciary is actively spearheading discussions on sustaining and deepening human rights practices as a state, communities, and individuals,” she said, adding that such forums demonstrate the Judiciary’s commitment to securing Kenya’s human rights obligations ahead of the fourth Universal Periodic Review scheduled for January 2025.

Justice Mwilu reiterated the Judiciary’s dedication to strengthening human rights practices and fostering partnerships to improve justice delivery and the enjoyment of rights by all Kenyans.

The High Court Annual Human Rights Summit, which attracted key judicial stakeholders, marked a significant step in advancing justice and upholding human rights in Kenya’s dynamic context.