Supreme Court Engages Public in Mombasa on Protection of Human Rights and Civic Space

Supreme Court Engages Public in Mombasa on Protection of Human Rights and Civic Space

Mombasa, Kenya – October 23, 2025

Supreme Court Judges Njoki Ndungu and William Ouko, alongside Dr. Mercy Deche and Mr. Tukero Ole Kina, on Thursday engaged members of the public in a town hall session at the Mombasa Law Courts to discuss the Court’s role in the protection of human rights and the civic space. The session was moderated by Prof. Sarah Kinyanjui.

Speaking during the interactive session, Justice Njoki Ndungu emphasized the importance of public engagement in deepening understanding of the Court’s operations and decisions.

“We are engaging the public so that people can understand how the Court operates. We want to include your views on how we practice and how we process cases,” said Justice Njoki.

The discussion, which focused on the Supreme Court’s contribution to upholding human rights and safeguarding democratic freedoms, came at a time when Kenya’s civic space continues to evolve, allowing greater freedom of expression amid emerging challenges such as poverty, threats to devolution, and the fragility of democratic institutions.

Justice William Ouko reflected on the Court’s jurisprudential journey, noting that while significant progress has been made in defending democracy and protecting rights, there remains room for continuous improvement.

“We think we have touched most areas of the law, although there is still room for dialogue so that we can improve as a Court. We have done very well in protecting human rights and defending democracy in the country,” he stated.

Mombasa LSK Branch Chairperson, Natasha Ali Errey, lauded the dialogue, underscoring the importance of free expression.

“A vibrant civic space where people speak and criticize is essential for our democracy,” said Ms Errey.

Participants commended the Court’s openness and called on it to remain steadfast in defending devolution and ensuring that the Executive and Legislature adhere to constitutional boundaries. The Judges encouraged advocates and lower courts to engage more actively with the Supreme Court’s decisions and jurisprudence.

The Mombasa Town Hall marks the second public engagement by the Supreme Court, forming part of its annual outreach initiative. It builds on the Supreme Court @12 reflections, which reviewed the Court’s milestones and identified areas for strengthening its impact on justice delivery and public trust.

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