NAIROBI: Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ) Philomena Mwilu has emphasized the importance of open dialogue and collaboration among judges and justice stakeholders to enhance the capacity and ability of judicial officers to administer justice effectively. Speaking at the conclusion of the inaugural two-day High Court Human Rights Summit in Nairobi, Mwilu highlighted the need for properly convened forums to facilitate discussions, consultations, and stakeholder engagement.

According to Kenya News Agency, the DCJ reiterated the necessity of cultivating an environment of information sharing to protect and promote human rights. She underscored the people-centered justice approach outlined in the institutional blueprint, Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ), which envisions judges as justice facilitators and promoters, rather than merely adjudicators of disputes.

Mwilu expressed her satisfaction with the engagement and learning among judges, which she believes will enhance justice provision in Kenya. Sh
e pointed out the High Court’s significant jurisdiction under Article 165(3)(b) of the Constitution to address whether a right or fundamental freedom has been denied or violated. This jurisdiction, she noted, is crucial for fostering dialogue and collaboration on human rights strategies.

The DCJ also acknowledged the judicial service’s awareness of the rapidly changing context in which it operates and its commitment to learning and collaboration with external actors and institutions. She emphasized the Judiciary’s role in sustaining and deepening human rights practices across various levels of society.

Furthermore, Mwilu highlighted that the summit, themed “Upholding Human Rights in a Changing Kenya,” coincided with International Human Rights Day, focusing on human rights as pathways to solutions. She noted the summit’s alignment with Kenya’s upcoming fourth Universal Periodic Review in January 2025, underscoring the Judiciary’s role in meeting international human rights obligations.

Mwilu assured that the
Judiciary would continue to deepen its commitment to strengthening human rights in the administration of justice for the benefit of all Kenyans, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized.