This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
July 8, 2020
Kenya's justice system has undergone significant transformations in recent years, with former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga playing a pivotal role in shattering myths surrounding the profession.
One notable figure who has benefited from these changes is Lawyer Mukundi Mathenge, Advocate of the High Court, who has made history as Kenya's first-ever Rastafarian lawyer.
Mathenge's admission to the bar is a significant milestone, not only for the Rastafarian community but also for the country's efforts towards social acceptance and education.
Locally, the stigma surrounding Rastafarians has been evident, as seen in the case of Makena Ndinda, a student who was expelled from Olympic High School in 2019 for wearing dreadlocks and practicing the Rastafarian religion.
However, with the help of social activism and a court ruling, Ndinda was eventually re-admitted to the school.
Mathenge, who obtained his law degree from Kenyatta University in 2017 and completed his postgraduate diploma in law at the Kenya School of Law, has spoken about the challenges he faces as a Rastafarian lawyer.
He has expressed his ambition to represent clients from all walks of life, regardless of their religion, and has emphasized the importance of advocating for minority groups and human rights.
As Kenya's first Rastafarian lawyer, Mathenge will undoubtedly face unique challenges in the courtroom, including navigating the intersection of his faith and the law.
For instance, he may encounter cases involving the use of bhang, which is illegal in Kenya but is a sacred plant in the Rastafarian faith.
Despite these challenges, Mathenge's presence in the justice system is a significant step towards greater understanding and acceptance of the Rastafarian community.
