A Justice of the Supreme Court, Yonny Kulendi, has cautioned lawyers and judges against pursuing judicial appointments for financial gain, saying the Bench is a place for service rather than personal enrichment.
According to him, individuals seeking wealth should not aspire to become judges, warning that such motivations risk undermining the integrity of the judiciary.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Justice Kulendi said judicial office demands a commitment to justice, service to the nation and accountability before God.
“If you’re looking for pecuniary fortunes, that’s not the place. Unless you want to become a transactional judge. But if you’re looking for genuine service to God and country, that is the place,” he said.
Justice Kulendi made the remarks when asked whether serving on the Bench is an aspiration every lawyer should consider if called upon to serve.
He said the decision ultimately depends on an individual’s values and priorities rather than professional ambition.
“It depends on an individual’s value system and what you prioritize,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of an independent and ethical judiciary, Justice Kulendi noted that the role of a judge is fundamental to maintaining a just society.
“An unjust society is not a society worth living in. And to have the privilege to serve in that capacity as a judge, for me, is humbling,” he stated.
Justice Kulendi was called to serve as a Supreme Court judge in May 2020. He describes the position as one of immense responsibility rather than privilege, stressing that judges must remain guided by conscience and their oath of office.
