BY BMJ MURIITHI
On his first trip outside the country since making his landmark ruling, Kenya’s Chief Justice, David Maraga, is visiting Tanzania where hi is attending the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Conference, being held in Dar es Salaam.
The judge, who led the team of Supreme Court of Kenya in nullifying President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Presidential victory, has become a household name around the world for the controversial decision.
Judge Maraga’s introduction at the conference Monday was greeted by thunderous cheers from other participants.
On Monday, Tanzania’s Chief justice Prof Ibrahim Juma commended Mr Maraga for what he termed as “standing for judiciary freedom in his native country.”
The aim of the conference, which draws 354 participants from various commonwealth countries, is to build an effective, accountable and inclusive judiciary system. The nations include United Kingdom, Scotland, Kenya, Uganda, Canada, Tanzania, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India.
The host country is represented by 50 members who include judges and magistrates from the mainland and Zanzibar.
Addressing journalists on Monday, Tanzania’s Chief Justice Ibrahim Juma said the meeting hopes to build awareness to the members on different issues such as freedom from interferance, international agreements and contracts, law progress and service accessibility.
Magara declined requests for an interview by journalists.