Kericho:The Judiciary has proposed a budget of Sh50.7 billion for the 2027/2028 financial year, aimed at expanding access to justice, increasing court capacities, speeding up case resolutions, and strengthening its ability to meet the growing demand for judicial services across the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, the proposed budget surpasses the indicative ceiling of Sh30.4 billion, resulting in a financing gap of approximately Sh20.4 billion, or 40.2 percent of the required resources. This shortfall could impact the implementation of planned programs and investments.
During a public forum at Moi Gardens in Kericho, Registrar of the Environment and Land Court Rose Wakungu, speaking on behalf of Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya, emphasized the importance of public participation in influencing the allocation of resources. This process aims to align spending priorities with the justice needs of Kenyans.
Of the Sh50.7 billion requested, Sh46.2 billion is allocated for recurrent expenditures, while Sh4.5 billion is designated for development programs to enhance court operations, human resources, infrastructure, digitization, and cybersecurity.
The Judicial Service Commission is seeking Sh1.83 billion against an indicative allocation of Sh1.038 billion, leaving a gap of 43 percent of its needs. Resource constraints could affect the establishment of new courts, digital system modernization, and personnel recruitment.
The judiciary has been addressing concerns such as case backlogs and delays by expanding court networks and increasing personnel. New courts and additional staff have been introduced, improving case resolution rates and judicial capacity.
Digital innovations, including the Mahakama Popote platform, have enhanced efficiency and accessibility, resolving 22,516 matters last financial year. However, sustaining these efforts requires adequate funding as judicial service demands grow.
The Kericho forum allowed stakeholders, including judiciary representatives and the public, to review and recommend on the proposed budget, ensuring resources are directed towards improving justice access and efficiency.
