Kenol: The private sector and civil society organizations have been urged to strengthen collaboration with the government in expanding access to justice across the country, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized members of society who often face barriers in obtaining legal services.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the launch of the Murang’a Legal Aid and Justice Centre, State Department for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs Principal Secretary Judith Pareno emphasized that access to justice is a constitutional right and a shared responsibility. She called for coordinated efforts by national and county governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and development partners to ensure this right is accessible to all.
Pareno highlighted that the newly established centre would provide free legal aid and representation to eligible individuals, addressing legal barriers that prevent many Kenyans from accessing justice. The centre will handle a wide range of legal issues, including land disputes, succession and administration cases, children’s matters, civil disputes, constitutional rights, public interest litigation, and other concerns affecting vulnerable groups.
The government is committed to ensuring justice is available to all citizens, regardless of their financial status. Pareno commended private sector and civil society organizations for their partnership in this initiative, reinforcing that access to justice is a constitutional commitment and should not be a privilege reserved for those who can afford legal services.
The State Department for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs is implementing measures to decentralize legal services, making them more accessible to communities nationwide. The government has deployed 98 State Counsels under the National Legal Aid Service (NLAS), with two officers assigned to every county to provide legal assistance and representation to eligible persons. This deployment aims to enhance the delivery of legal aid services closer to communities while reducing bureaucratic barriers.
National Legal Aid Service Chairperson William Musyoki encouraged Kenyans to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, noting that mediation, arbitration, and other community-based justice mechanisms offer faster, less expensive, and more sustainable solutions to many disputes. These mechanisms also help reduce case backlogs in the judiciary.
Haki Africa Director Yusuf Abboubakar underscored the link between justice, peace, and economic development. He urged the government to engage citizens and address public grievances to strengthen national cohesion and foster sustainable development. Abboubakar stressed that dialogue between government institutions and citizens is crucial for building trust, reducing tensions, and creating an environment conducive to investment and economic growth.
Representing the private sector, Del Monte’s Wayne Cook reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at strengthening communities through improved access to justice and respect for human rights. Cook emphasized that responsible business conduct is anchored on respect for human rights, contributing to a stable and just society that fosters sustainable business operations.
Murang’a County Commissioner Hassan Ali Bule encouraged residents to utilize the free legal services offered at the newly launched centre, highlighting the government’s commitment to decentralizing services and ensuring justice reaches even the most remote communities. National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and National Government Administrative Elders will work to create awareness about the availability of legal aid services, particularly in underserved areas.
Officials noted that under Section 36 of the Legal Aid Act, eligible individuals for legal aid include Kenyan citizens meeting prescribed criteria, children, recognized refugees, victims of human trafficking, internally displaced persons, and stateless persons. Legal aid services are provided through state counsels, accredited agency lawyers, probation officers, mediators, arbitrators, paralegals, and pro bono advocates working under the National Legal Aid Service framework.
