N.A. Speaker Dr Moses Wetang’ula addressing the summit .
By I.P. reporter.
NAIROBI.
The 2024 Annual High Court Human Rights Summit, the first of its kind in Kenya, underscored a significant milestone for the judiciary and reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to upholding human rights amid a changing legal landscape.
The event, held at the Safari Park Hotel and themed “Upholding Human Rights in a Changing Kenya,” brought together members of the judiciary, civil society, and legal professionals.
National Assembly Speaker Dr.Moses Wetang’ula, who presided over Day Two, praised the judiciary’s role in safeguarding constitutional rights.
“Human rights are central to our Republic,” Wetang’ula said, highlighting Article 21 of the Constitution, which mandates the state to protect and fulfill these rights.
He emphasized the importance of cautious judicial declarations when considering laws unconstitutional and assured that Parliament is ready to collaborate through legislative and oversight mechanisms.
Wetang’ula pointed to the ongoing Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2023, which seeks to uphold the rights of disabled persons as outlined in Article 54 of the Constitution.
He also referenced current investigations into alleged abuses, such as those linked to the British Army Training Unit in Kenya and the historical toxic waste dumping in northern Kenya.
Judicial welfare was also on Wetang’ula’s agenda.
He acknowledged concerns from judicial officers and pledged to seek solutions through continued dialogue, stating, “Justice is best served when those dispensing it are well-supported.”
The summit was seen as a step forward in reinforcing Kenya’s human rights framework, with Wetang’ula expressing hope for ongoing collaboration between branches of government and civil society.
“Only through joint effort can we uphold and protect the rights of every Kenyan,” he said.
This inaugural summit marks a new chapter in Kenya’s evolving commitment to human rights, reflecting the judiciary’s critical role in guiding the nation through constitutional challenges.
Ends.
