Justice Nixon Sifuna sparked controversy Friday by condemning lawyers who launch social media campaigns against judicial officers. The judge argued that ethics codes prevent judges from defending themselves publicly against such attacks. He warned advocates that similar online harassment might target them in the future. Sifuna urged legal professionals to respect judicial dignity and maintain professional standards. The remarks emphasized that judges deserve recognition as human beings deserving basic respect.
Former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi rejected Sifuna's accusations as unfounded criticism. He maintained that lawyers exercise their constitutional rights when seeking justice through court proceedings. Havi characterized legal criticism as objective feedback rather than malicious attacks on the judiciary. Advocate Willis Otieno supported this position by arguing that constructive criticism helps institutions improve their performance. Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga reminded judges that public accountability remains essential in democratic societies since judicial power derives from citizen delegation.
Former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi rejected Sifuna's accusations as unfounded criticism. He maintained that lawyers exercise their constitutional rights when seeking justice through court proceedings. Havi characterized legal criticism as objective feedback rather than malicious attacks on the judiciary. Advocate Willis Otieno supported this position by arguing that constructive criticism helps institutions improve their performance. Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga reminded judges that public accountability remains essential in democratic societies since judicial power derives from citizen delegation.
