CJ Martha Koome meets Nobel Peace Prize laureates/JUDICIARY Chief Justice Martha Koome on Tuesday met with Nobel Peace Prize laureates Oleksandra Matviichuk, Shirin Ebadi, and Leymah Gbowee.
The laureates are celebrated for their work defending human rights, promoting democracy, and advancing peace.
They have been recognised for leading global efforts for peace, women's rights, and justice.
In a statement on Tuesday following the engagement, the CJ said the discussions focused on the critical role of independent judiciaries in protecting human rights.
"I had the honour of engaging with Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, Oleksandra Matviichuk, Shirin Ebadi, and Leymah Gbowee on the critical role of independent judiciaries in safeguarding constitutionalism, promoting accountability, and protecting the rights of all, especially women and girls," she stated.
Koome emphasised that an autonomous judiciary is a cornerstone of democracy.
“Our courts must continue to uphold constitutional values and ensure that no one is above the law,” she said.
She noted that judicial independence is essential for safeguarding the rights of all, particularly women and girls who often face systemic barriers to justice.
The meeting brought together global leaders renowned for their efforts in advancing human rights, democracy, and peace.
According to CJ Koome, the discussions focused on the challenges facing judiciaries worldwide and the need for courts to remain impartial, resilient, and accountable to the public they serve.
The engagement coincided with the commemoration of Wangari Maathai Day, offering CJ Koome an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the late Nobel laureate.
"As we commemorate Wangari Maathai Day, I pay tribute to Prof. Maathai’s enduring legacy of courage, integrity, and service," she said in the statement.
The Chief Justice drew parallels between Maathai’s advocacy for environmental justice and the judiciary’s role in defending constitutional rights and promoting accountability.
Professor Wangari Maathai was a renowned environmentalist, political activist, and advocate for human rights and women’s empowerment.
She founded the Green Belt Movement in 1977, an organisation dedicated to environmental conservation through tree planting and community mobilisation, particularly empowering women to protect their land and livelihoods.
In 2004, Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, becoming the first African woman to receive the honour.
The visit by the Nobel Peace Prize winners was also seen as a reaffirmation of Kenya’s commitment to upholding democratic values and strengthening the rule of law.
CJ Koome underscored that the judiciary remains steadfast in advancing equal justice for all, ensuring that the principles enshrined in the Constitution are respected and protected.
Koome said that Kenya’s judiciary remains committed to advancing equal justice for all.
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