Naema Celestine 
| Benmike Wekesa |
In a moving tribute, the Chief Justice led the judiciary in remembering the 24 people who lost their lives in last week’s protests. The CJ, presiding over a ceremony to admit new advocates to the bar, expressed deep concerns over the use of excessive force by the police.
“We should not witness cases of excessive use of force that threaten the lives of peaceful and unarmed protesters.”
In a heartfelt message to the grieving families, the Chief Justice stated that these tragic deaths could have been avoided if the police had not resorted to using live bullets.
“We cannot, as judges and judicial officers, envisage anybody taking the law into their own hands and taking away a life.”
Emphasizing the sanctity of constitutional rights and the rule of law, she demanded immediate action against rogue police officers who misuse their power.
“Those who are the perpetrators must be charged and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
The Chief Justice also denounced the recent wave of abductions and called on the Police Service to establish proper arrest protocols.
“It is an indignity to abduct somebody when you can just summon them to the police station if there is anything you require from them.”
She assured the public that the judiciary is ready to extend its working hours if needed, to ensure that all individuals arrested during the anti-finance bill protests receive justice.
The judiciary has called on protesters to operate within the confines of the law while expressing its displeasure at the police’s handling of the protests. The Chief Justice promised that justice will be served for those injured or killed during the demonstrations
