How judges, lawyers survived 12-hour judgment marathon
Five Supreme Court judges on Wednesday made history when they sat for nearly 12 hours without having a meal or a health break.
Chief Justice David Maraga, his deputy Philomena Mwilu and Justices Isaac Lenaola, Njoki Ndung’u and Jackton Ojwang strolled into the chambers shortly after 10am on Wednesday and took their seats.
They only rose a few minutes to 10pm – after a near 12-hour marathon – having delivered their detailed judgments on the annulled presidential election result.
Justice Smokin Wanjala, who had travelled abroad, and Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, who was taken ill during the hearings, were spared the experience.
But while members of the bar had the liberty to stretch their legs and have meals by walking out, those on the bench – the judges – did not have that luxury.
HEALTH BREAKS
Apart from the water on their tables, the judges had to suspend their hunger pangs as well as health breaks.
The Daily Nation’s Sam Kiplagat says the lawyers for both the respondents would walk out and either have meals or snacks at the Java across the road or at the foyer within Supreme Court.
At some point, lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi was seen sharing a chocolate bar with Elgeyo Marakwet senator Kichumba Murkomen, who was appearing for the defence.
Journalists covering the historic judgment also had food and snacks brought by their respective media houses.
The Attorney General Githu Muigai was brought energy drinks by aides which he generously shared with some “lucky” lawyers.
He then strolled a bit.