By Nyang’au Araka
For years, Kenyans have known Dr. Johansen Oduor as the calm, clinical voice explaining causes of death in some of the country’s most closely watched investigations.
On Monday, however, the Chief Government Pathologist stepped into a different arena of justice — not with a postmortem report, but with a legal gown.
Also Read
Dr. Oduor was among newly qualified lawyers admitted to the Roll of Advocates in Nairobi, marking an unexpected but fitting new chapter for a man whose career has long sat at the intersection of medicine, evidence and the law.
The ceremony was presided over by Chief Justice Martha Koome at Milimani Law Courts, where she urged the new advocates to see the law as a public good rather than simply a career path.
“Your admission to the Roll of Advocates is an induction into a profession that lies at the heart of constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and the administration of justice,” she said.
She challenged the advocates to help narrow Kenya’s justice gap by extending legal services to ordinary citizens, especially the poor and vulnerable.
“Behind every file is a human story: a widow fighting to retain her land, a child seeking protection, a worker pursuing dignity, a survivor of violence seeking justice, or a citizen confronting abuse of power,” she said.
“Compassionate advocacy is therefore not a weakness. It is an essential part of justice.”
Koome dismissed concerns that the legal profession is becoming overcrowded, noting that many Kenyans still struggle to access legal assistance, particularly outside major urban centres.
She also warned lawyers against conduct that delays justice.
“An advocate must never become an obstacle to justice,” she said, urging preparedness, diligence and respect for court timelines.
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya echoed the message, reminding the new advocates that integrity remains the foundation of legal practice and encouraging them to use their knowledge beyond courtrooms to strengthen institutions and expand access to justice.
