Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for stronger partnerships between the Judiciary and County Governments to improve access to justice. Speaking in Isiolo during the launch of the Isiolo High Court, Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) Centre, and Court Annexed Mediation, Koome stressed the importance of working together to expand the Judiciary’s reach.
She noted that many regions, like Merti, 200km from Isiolo, still lack easy access to courts. “We must bring courts closer to the people,” she said, urging counties to provide land for court stations.
Isiolo Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan promised to allocate land for courts in Merti and Garbatulla. He encouraged locals to use the new AJS and Court Annexed Mediation services, emphasizing the role of community elders in resolving disputes.
Koome also urged residents to join Court Users Committees (CUCs) to give feedback and help improve the justice system. “Your input ensures we meet your justice needs,” she said.
Court of Appeal Judge Aggrey Muchelule revealed that over 21,000 cases have been resolved through Court Annexed Mediation with a 92% success rate. He encouraged more people to use this method for quicker resolutions.
Judicial Service Commission Vice Chair Isaac Rutto reaffirmed the JSC’s dedication to expanding justice services, especially in underserved areas. He noted that the AJS Policy Framework (2020) aims to integrate traditional dispute resolution into the national system, with a budget set aside to support it.
Rutto highlighted recent appointments of 20 High Court judges, 77 judicial officers, and 572 staff to boost efficiency and reduce case backlogs.
The launch marks a significant step toward improving justice access in Isiolo and other regions, with both local and national efforts working together.
