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Judiciary in bid to make courts more accessible

Mary Nyambeki, Simon Kioko Mwanzia, Michael MwangiThe Judiciary will establish 290 new magistrate courts around the country and recruit new magistrates and judges to ensure each sub-county in the country is covered.
Chief Justice David Maraga said the Judiciary is ever growing due to devolution hence the need for more courts around the country to bring justice closer to the citizens.
Speaking on Friday after admitting 139 new advocates to the bar, Mr Maraga said the Judiciary is committed to delivering justice to Kenyans including those living in far places in tandem with the requirements set out in the new constitution.
“The Judiciary itself is an ever expanding sector with a growing number of courts. We now have 123 magistrate court stations, 39 High Court stations and four appeal court stations across the country and Supreme Court. In due course we aim to increase the magistrate courts to cover all sub-counties.
"A total of 290 of them to ensure each county has a court stations and several magistrate courts in sub-county,” he added.
He challenged lawyers to take advantage of the judiciary courts expansion programme across the country by setting up law firms outside “crowded” towns and cities.
The CJ told the newly admitted advocates that they are joining the legal fraternity at the time devolution has created vast opportunities outside major cities and towns.
He said the constitution has also opened many constitutional bodies where legal service is highly needed.
“There are also a lot of opportunities these days. Many jobs await you in public sector which were not there during our days. Devolution has created many opportunities for advocates whether in legal departments of the county governments or in the private practice in many vibrant towns emerging even in far flag places,”
The CJ urged the newly advocates to embrace integrity as the whole mark of their career and strict adhering to code of their practice without engaging themselves in corrupt practices.
“The appetite for quick cash is the poison that you must avoid at all times. Let me remind you that the oath you have taken today bides you to uphold the integrity of the court irrespective of your instruction. You must always remember you are an officer of the court and you must always assist the court by ensuring you uphold the rule of law and justice prevail at all time,” 
Mr Maraga stated that since he assumed office, he had admitted close to 1300 advocates whom he said he expect them to offer dignified services to the court and the public and fight injustices.
Advocates Complaint Commissioner Secretary George Nyakundi and Law Society of Kenya national chairman Isaack Okero also cautioned the new advocates against involving themselves in malpractices that will tarnish their career and reputation.
Mr Nyakundi indicated that his commission is increasingly receiving cases advocates involving in gross misconduct some of whom have been struck from their roles, others given lengthy suspensions and warnings.
“Kenyans will expect you to uphold the rule of the law and uphold justice. Being called to bar means being called to face challenges. Please avoid tarnishing your reputation and career,” he added.
In a speech read by LSK Chief Executive Officer Mercy Wambua, Mr Okero remarked: “Make no mistake, this is a life changing moment for each of you. No other profession requires a dedication to upholding the rule of law and administration of justice.” 

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