Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mbete Mwilu has urged newly recruited resident magistrates to uphold integrity, remain faithful to the Constitution and ensure justice is accessible to all Kenyans as they begin their judicial service.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of a two-week induction and swearing-in programme at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi on March 13, Mwilu reminded the magistrates that the authority they exercise flows directly from the people and must be used responsibly.
“The judicial authority that has been conferred upon you by the people of Kenya is both a solemn honour and a profound responsibility,” Mwilu said. “When you took your oath, you accepted not merely a position of employment, but a public trust.”
Mwilu, who also serves as Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, emphasized that judicial officers must anchor all decisions on constitutional principles including equality, human dignity, democracy and the rule of law.
She reminded the magistrates that justice must be delivered without delay or undue reliance on procedural technicalities.
During the training organised by the Kenya Judiciary Academy, the magistrates were taken through key aspects of judicial work including judgment writing, case management, plea taking and court procedure. Mwilu said these skills are essential in ensuring justice is effectively delivered in courts across the country.
She cautioned the magistrates against corruption, favouritism and abuse of office, warning that public trust in the judiciary remains fragile.
“Judicial authority cannot coexist with corruption, favouritism or abuse of office. The trust reposed in the Judiciary is fragile and must be protected vigilantly,” she said.
Mwilu also stressed that magistrates must conduct themselves with dignity both inside and outside the courtroom, noting that public perception of justice depends largely on their conduct.
“Justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done,” she said, quoting the well-known principle guiding courts worldwide.
She further reminded the judicial officers that magistrates’ courts represent the first and often the only interaction many citizens have with the justice system, making their role critical in strengthening public confidence in the rule of law.
“For many Kenyans, the magistrate’s court is the first and often the only encounter they will have with the Judiciary,” Mwilu said.
In her closing remarks, the Deputy Chief Justice encouraged the magistrates to guard their independence, treat all court users with respect and remain committed to doing what is right even when faced with challenges.
“Always remember that the authority you wield belongs not to you, but to the people in whose name you serve,” she said.
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the induction programme and the formal entry of the new magistrates into the judiciary, where they are expected to serve in courts across the country.
