Chief Justice Martha Koome has called on newly appointed Senior Counsels to use their elevated status to promote national unity, uphold the Constitution, encourage responsible public dialogue, and safeguard democratic institutions.
Speaking during the conferment ceremony at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, she said the rank recognizes not only personal achievement but also the nation’s confidence in the integrity, professional excellence, and distinguished service of the senior advocates honored.
“Your confirmation of the rank of Senior Counsel is therefore not accidental. It reflects your years of technical practice, intellectual rigor, and unwavering fidelity to the rule of law,” Chief Justice Koome said, emphasizing that the rank is reserved for those who have demonstrated irreproachable integrity, exemplary professional conduct, and distinguished service, as outlined in Section 17 of the Advocates Act.
She noted that the honor carries significant responsibilities.
“The younger generation of lawyers will continue to look upon you for guidance, not only in legal craftsmanship but also in ethical conduct. You are now custodians of a professional conscience, and that comes with a duty to lead conversations on ethical renewal and to model the virtues that distinguish the legal profession,” she said.
Chief Justice Koome also urged the new Senior Counsels to mentor advocates and foster a professional culture where competence and confidence are inseparable from integrity.
“It falls upon you to ensure that the legal profession remains a guardian of justice, rather than merely a marketplace of legal transactions,” she added.
She highlighted that the influence of Senior Counsel extends beyond the courtroom.
“With this recognition, you become statesmen and stateswomen of our republic. You become voices whose counsel matters in the public square… Let your influence contribute to building a society that values justice, fairness, and respect,” the Chief Justice said.
She expressed confidence in their ability to rise to the responsibility.
“Once more, on behalf of the judiciary, I congratulate you on this honor. Carry this title with humility, vision, and unwavering integrity,” Chief Justice Koome concluded.
President William Ruto on Wednesday conferred the rank of Senior Counsel on 54 advocates, a record number that includes prominent figures such as Noordin Haji and Moses Wetang’ula, as well as many women, bringing the total number of Senior Counsel in Kenya to 120.
The appointments followed a rigorous process under the Advocates Act, where the President acts on recommendations from a committee that evaluates exemplary legal service, professionalism, and contribution to the profession.
This cohort is notably more diverse and younger than previous groups, marking a shift in tradition and reflecting efforts to broaden representation in Kenya’s top legal ranks.
