Lawyers are free to appear in the Supreme Court wearing studs or dreadlocks, Chief Justice Willy Mutunga says.

And judges will not wear “colonial wigs and robes” and suggestions would be sought from the public on a simple robe that can be worn over a suit.

Dr Mutunga, whose tenure at the helm of the Judiciary started with a break from tradition, chose social network site Facebook to make the announcement.

He was responding to queries by young lawyers over his position on studs and the dress code.

Appear smart

In the message on his Facebook page on Tuesday, he says: “I can say that the judges of the Supreme Court have agreed that we have no issues with anyone appearing before it wearing their studs.”

“Our position is that as long as officers of the court — both lawyers and judges — can appear smart, a stud or indeed dreadlocks should not hinder the administration of justice.

“At the Supreme Court, we shall not be wearing colonial wigs and robes.

“We will encourage the Court of Appeal and High Court to review their dress code. We expect the public to participate in the debate,” he says.