Kwale:The Alternative Justice System (AJS) in Kwale has successfully resolved 62 percent of the cases referred to it, according to Kwale Law Courts Administrator Lucas Nyakundi. Speaking at the 10-year anniversary celebration of the system in Kwale, Nyakundi emphasized that AJS has significantly alleviated pressure on formal courts by offering communities alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nyakundi highlighted that the system utilizes traditional community-based dispute resolution methods, which complement the formal judicial process by resolving disputes before they reach court. He called on Kaya elders to actively participate in community dispute resolutions, stressing that AJS does not compete with the court system but works alongside it.
Environment and Land Court Judge Elena Dericho acknowledged that AJS empowers communities to administer justice through mediation and elder involvement, promoting peace and reducing the time and costs associated with formal court procedures. She noted the backlog in the magistrates’ court, with over 1,700 pending cases, leading to delays and adjournments, though she cautioned that AJS is not suitable for disputes involving constitutional rights violations.
Rosemary Nandi, representing the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, encouraged residents to embrace alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for minor disputes to prevent unnecessary court backlogs and police cell congestion. Rashid Mbwiza, a lawyer on the AJS committee, noted the initiative’s goal to provide fair justice access to all residents, particularly in communities lacking awareness of available dispute resolution methods.
Cindy Adundo from the Refugee Consortium of Kenya urged residents to welcome refugees and foster peaceful coexistence, noting the organization’s efforts to strengthen relationships between refugees and their host communities. Governor Fatuma Achani, the event’s chief guest, lauded the Judiciary’s role in justice administration and emphasized AJS’s importance in promoting peaceful coexistence, despite challenges in handling heated disputes.
Nyakundi announced that another AJS celebration is scheduled for February 2, 2027.
