Chief Justice Martha Koome on Monday, July 1, 2024, admitted 401 lawyers to the roll of advocates at the Milimani Law Court.
The ceremony which ordinarily occurs at the Supreme Court was conducted at the Milimani Law Court following vandalism by Anti-Finance Bill 2024 protesters.
The newly-inducted advocates joined 339 others who were admitted to the roll on March 8, 2024, by the Chief Justice.
Koome advised the advocates on the shift in market dynamics, urging them to adapt quickly to the current environment.
“They are stepping into a landscape where the practice of law is evolving rapidly, driven by the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the administration of justice,” Koome noted.
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu urged the new advocates to remain steadfast in their practice amid temptations to fit into unprofessional tendencies.
“You must not waver in your commitment to that oath and you must be ready to sacrifice for your conviction. Do the right thing in a society that seems to have lost its way and abandoned its compass do not try and fit in, be the stranger in Jerusalem, do the right thing,” Mwilu advised.
LSK advice to advocates
Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo congratulated the new advocates for making it to the bar, stating that this had come at a time when the country needs them most.
“It is my distinguished honour to welcome the newly admitted advocates to the Bar. Congratulations to each of you on this momentous achievement,” Odhiambo said.
She added: “You join the profession at a time when our country needs you more than ever. Today, you take up the honourable role of protectors of human rights, defenders of justice, and the voices of the voiceless. Your calling to stand firmly for the rule of law and constitutionalism is one you must answer to and remain unrelenting in.”
She assured the advocates of full professional support throughout their careers, adding that the Law Society of Kenya would do everything in its capacity to make them thrive.
“Congratulations, wakilis. Ambieni mwalimu wa maths mmefika kwa bar,” Odhiambo joked.
The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary of Kenya Winfridah Mokaya urged the new advocates to abide by the commitment they had made to the profession, saying theirs was more than a career but a calling as well.
“As you take this important step, I encourage you to reflect on the responsibilities that come with the privilege of being an advocate. The legal profession is not merely a career; it is a calling that demands integrity, professionalism and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law,” Mokaya said.
