A shocking incident unfolded outside the Supreme Court of Kenya at 9:30am on March 11, 2025, when a man, whose identity remains unconfirmed, set himself on fire in what appears to be a protest against delayed justice.

According to an official statement from the Judiciary, the man arrived at the Supreme Court building around 9:30 AM, carrying some documents and a bottle containing a liquid suspected to be petrol.

Eyewitnesses say he placed the documents on the ground, doused himself in the flammable substance, and ignited a fire using a lighter.

Security officers stationed at the Supreme Court responded swiftly, extinguishing the flames before it could cause fatal injuries. However, the man sustained serious burns.

Emergency medical services, coordinated by the Nairobi County Government, arrived promptly, and he was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital for treatment.

Authorities have since taken possession of the man’s documents and burnt clothing for further examination.

The Judiciary has expressed keen interest in investigating whether his drastic action is linked to an ongoing court case. Once the man recovers, police are expected to interrogate him to determine his motivations.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion, particularly on social media, where users speculate that the act was a desperate plea for justice.

Online reactions have ranged from outrage over the alleged delays in Kenya’s legal system to concern about the mental and emotional toll legal battles can take on individuals.

This incident raises pressing questions about the accessibility and efficiency of the country’s judicial system, as well as the measures in place to prevent such extreme actions. The Judiciary has yet to provide further details, but officials have wished the man a speedy recovery as investigations continue.