Nairobi: King Willem-Alexander and Queen M¡xima of the Netherlands made a significant visit to Chief Justice Martha Koome at the Supreme Court Building. The meeting highlighted the robust bilateral relations between Kenya and the Netherlands.
According to Kenya News Agency, the royal visit, part of a state visit to Kenya, underscored a mutual commitment to the rule of law, democracy, and good governance. Discussions between Chief Justice Koome and the Royal Couple focused on the importance of judicial independence as a pillar for national stability.
Chief Justice Koome emphasized the judiciary's steadfast resistance to any external influences that might impede impartiality, stating that an independent judiciary is crucial for upholding the Constitution, ensuring fair trials, and protecting citizens' rights and freedoms. The judiciary's efforts to make justice more accessible have received support from the Dutch government through the International Development Law Organization (IDLO).
Among the judiciary's initiatives are the establishment of Specialized Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Courts, aimed at supporting vulnerable groups with survivor-centered and trauma-informed processes. The introduction of the Small Claims Court has expedited the resolution of commercial disputes for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), contributing to economic growth while maintaining swift and efficient justice for all.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the judiciary's progress in female leadership and its commitment to tackling corruption, promoting climate justice, and addressing police power misuse. Collaboration with relevant agencies ensures the judiciary remains responsive to society's evolving needs.
During their visit, King Willem and Queen M¡xima toured the Judiciary Museum, learning about Kenya's legal heritage and the judiciary's role in democratic and constitutional reforms. The visit reinforced the importance of strong, independent justice institutions and the depth of Kenya-Netherlands cooperation in promoting democratic values and human rights.
The event was attended by Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung'u, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, and Deputy Chief Registrar Paul Ndemo.