Kakamega: Chief Justice Martha Koome has reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to bringing judicial services closer to the people and enhancing access to justice across the country. Koome made the remarks after holding a consultative meeting with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa at the governor’s office, where they discussed ways of strengthening collaboration between the Judiciary and the county government.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Judiciary is working towards ensuring that all sub-counties in Kakamega County without Magistrates’ Courts are equipped with the necessary facilities to improve access to justice. Koome emphasized the importance of fostering a partnership with the county government, a key stakeholder in service delivery, and assessing the justice needs of the county.
The Chief Justice highlighted the progress made under devolution, noting that Kakamega County now hosts a Court of Appeal, significantly reducing the burden on litigants who previously had to travel to Kisumu or Nakuru to have their cases heard. She expressed gratitude for the establishment of the Court of Appeal in Kakamega, which has eased access to justice for residents.
Koome also stressed the importance of prioritizing underserved areas such as Likuyani and other sub-counties without courts. She assured residents that the Judiciary would work to ensure that people do not have to travel long distances to access justice, which she described as a fundamental service.
Governor Barasa welcomed the Judiciary’s efforts and described the establishment of a Court of Appeal bench in Kakamega as a historic milestone. He also praised the creation of a Small Claims Court in Mumias, which has improved access to justice for traders and small-scale business owners.
The governor noted that the collaboration between the Judiciary and the county government aims to improve service delivery and ensure residents have easier access to justice. He revealed plans to establish an Alternative Justice System in the county, set to be launched by the Chief Justice within the next two months.
Barasa disclosed that the Judiciary has agreed to operationalize a County Court at the Kakamega Law Courts to handle matters related to county legislation. Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga cautioned politicians and the public against making inflammatory statements and inciting violence, urging support for peace and accountability.
