Several lawyers in Kisii County have lauded outgoing Chief Justice David Maraga for executing reforms in the Judiciary and opening several courts to being justice closer to members of the Public.
The lawyers- Kefa Mogire, Dennis Nyatundo and South West Kenya Law Society of Kenya ( LSK) chairman Wilkins Ochoki said the CJ fought graft in the Judiciary and ensured the backlog of cases beyond five years were cleared.
The LSK chairman said the CJ fostered integrity in the Judiciary, which trickled down, adding that during his five-year tenure, the backlog of cases was reduced from 300,000 to 30,000.
“The Chief Justice’s leadership was exemplary. He was forthright and opened 25 more courts to help people access justice,” Ochoki said.
He said the CJ introduced e-filing and virtual hearing of cases due the outbreak of Covid despite the Judiciary’s limited budget, stressing he has set higher standards for sub subsequent Chief Justices.
Speaking in Kisii, the LSK chairman noted the CJ worked closely with lawyers and challenged the next CJ to follow suit.
“ The chief Justice has left a rich legacy. We expect the next Chief Justice to perpetuate his legacy and ensure the independence of the Judiciary is maintained,” noted Ochoki.
Mogire said that during the CJ’s tenure, several judicial officers were promoted and motivated, which enhanced the dispensation of cases and justice.
“ Maraga is a great man. He is a statement who handled and dispensed petitions with great wisdom. As a legal fraternity, we wish him well in his endeavors,” Mogire said.
Nyatundo said the chief Justice was a gift to the country, adding he has left a rich legacy worth emulating by his successors.
He said the opening of several courts across the country will enable litigants reach courts easily and access justice with ease.