We come here to serve justice, not side shows, court warns Havi
National
By
Nancy Gitonga
| Jul 04, 2025
The High Court has cautioned lawyer Nelson Havi against disrespecting the judiciary, following his remarks during a court session on Friday concerning the cases on removal of all seven Supreme Court judges.
A three-judge bench comprising Justices Charles Kariuki, Lawrence Mugambi, and Bahati Mwamuye, presiding over seven consolidated petitions challenging the Judicial Service Commission's (JSC) consideration of complaints seeking the ouster of the apex court judges, took issue with Havi's strong-worded response after being informed that his application to disqualify them would be heard in October.
“This is a matter concerning the judges of the Supreme Court. It is prioritised as urgent. What can be more urgent to this court?” Havi challenged, urging the court to reconsider the hearing date.
However, Justice Kariuki, who led the bench, explained that an earlier date was not possible as one of the three judges would be on leave.
“It is not feasible to allocate an earlier date. The only available date is October 3, 2025,” he ruled.
READ MORE
How Kenya can turn technological progress into real development
Kenya wins three-year AGOA extension, securing jobs
When trust is what it takes to make good profit
Unlocking Kenya's next phase of growth through powering SMEs
Why Telegram remains most restricted social media platform globally
Low financial literacy holding back more funding to farmers, says top bank official
Hiking is the new exploration cashcow for Africa's foresight
US now opens door for Kenya to reclaim vital Agoa trade benefits
How low production is slowing down jobs in the wholesale and retail sector
Bold policy implementation needed to jumpstart Kenya's auto industry
Dissatisfied, Havi reluctantly accepted the date but did not conceal his disappointment.
“We will take the date of October 3, but with tremendous respect, this is a disappointment to all advocates practicing before the courts of this country,” he said.
This remark immediately drew a reaction from the bench and opposing counsel.
Senior counsels George Oraro and James Ochieng Oduor, representing Chief Justice Martha Koome, were quick to distance themselves from Havi’s comments.
“We do not align ourselves with those sentiments,” said Oduor, urging the court to remind advocates to uphold decorum and respect.
Justice Kariuki responded with a pointed warning: “We have taken note of that, and we appreciate it. We hope that advocates, when we come here, we come to do justice, all without any side shadows.”