A landmark petition by Sheria Mtaani accuses the Judiciary of systemic exclusion, demanding immediate infrastructure upgrades to ensure every Kenyan can physically access the halls of justice.

For years, the imposing steps of the Milimani Law Courts have symbolized authority. But for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), they represent an insurmountable wall. Now, advocate Shadrack Wambui is taking a sledgehammer to that barrier, filing a certificate of urgency that demands the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) wake up.

This is not merely about ramps and rails; it is a constitutional stress test. If the very sanctuary of the law excludes the vulnerable, can justice truly be served? [...](asc_slot://start-slot-5)The petition exposes a glaring gap between Kenya's progressive Constitution and the physical reality of its institutions.

The Case Against the Architecture

Filed by the public interest group Sheria Mtaani, the petition paints a damning picture of the current state of the Milimani Law Courts. The lawsuit argues that the absence of basic accessibility infrastructure—such as functional ramps, lifts, handrails, and accessible washrooms—amounts to discrimination. This is a direct violation of Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination.

Advocate Shadrack Wambui, leading the charge, contends that the physical barriers prevent PWDs from participating fully in legal proceedings. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-7)This exclusion affects not just litigants, but also lawyers, judicial officers, and court staff who live with disabilities. The message sent by the architecture is clear: you do not belong here.

• Petitioner: Sheria Mtaani & Advocate Shadrack Wambui.
• Respondent: Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
• Key Demands: Installation of ramps, lifts, guiding rails, and accessible toilets.
• Status: Certified as urgent by the High Court.

A Systemic Failure

The irony is palpable. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-9)The Judiciary is the arm of government tasked with upholding the rights of the citizenry, yet its own headquarters fails to accommodate a significant portion of that population. The petition highlights that previous administrative attempts to resolve the issue have hit a brick wall, necessitating this judicial intervention.

Court documents reveal that the lack of facilities has forced some PWDs to be carried up stairs—a humiliating and undignified experience that strips them of their independence. For a visually impaired lawyer or a wheelchair-bound witness, the simple act of attending a hearing becomes a logistical nightmare.

The Broader Implication

This case could set a powerful precedent for all public buildings in Kenya. A ruling in favor of Sheria Mtaani would not only mandate changes at Milimani but could trigger a wave of compliance across other government sectors. It challenges the "compliance by check-box" culture, demanding tangible, functional changes that respect the dignity of all Kenyans.

The JSC has been quiet on the matter, but the pressure is mounting. With the eyes of the human rights community fixed on this case, the Judiciary is on trial in its own court. The verdict will determine whether "Justice for All" is a reality or just a slogan.

"We cannot speak of the rule of law when the doors to the temple of justice are physically locked against our brothers and sisters," Wambui stated in his affidavit.