Former Chief Justice David Maraga has urged Kenyan advocates to adapt to a shifting legal environment while remaining anchored to constitutional principles.
He made the remarks during an end-year dinner hosted by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nakuru Chapter on Thursday evening.
In a statement published on X, Maraga said the forum brought together advocates practising in Nakuru across different career levels, including senior, middle, and young members of the bar.
He noted that the gathering created space for reflection on professional challenges affecting lawyers at various stages of practice.
Maraga pointed to the growing importance of emerging legal fields, citing environmental law and data protection as areas young advocates should consider.
He said these fields are becoming more relevant as Kenyan society responds to new social, economic, and technological realities.
The former Chief Justice linked these changes to broader shifts in legal practice, noting that the profession must evolve as new issues arise.
He emphasised that adaptation should not come at the expense of core constitutional values that underpin Kenya’s justice system.
According to Maraga, discussions at the Nakuru event also focused on cooperation within the legal profession.
He said advocates must work collectively to strengthen the rule of law and support the administration of justice.
He added that participants committed to continued engagement aimed at national renewal, using the themes “Restore, Reset and Rebuild” to describe their shared outlook.
Maraga said these efforts should be firmly grounded in constitutionalism and respect for the rule of law.
The engagement comes at a time when Kenya’s legal sector is navigating complex debates around governance, rights protection, and institutional accountability.
Lawyers have played a central role in constitutional litigation since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, often shaping public discourse on executive power, elections, and civil liberties.
Maraga, who served as Chief Justice until 2021, has remained active in public legal discussions since leaving office.
He has frequently addressed forums involving legal professionals, civil society, and faith-based groups, focusing on constitutional compliance and ethical leadership.
The LSK Nakuru Chapter did not issue a formal communiqué following the dinner. The event, as described by Maraga, focused on professional reflection and commitment rather than policy resolutions or declarations.