By Dorothy Musyoka
In a significant step towards enhancing the judicial infrastructure in Uasin Gishu, the Judiciary has committed to establishing a permanent Court of Appeal in Eldoret.
Chief Justice Martha Koome made the announcement in Uasin Gishu County.
“I paid a courtesy call on Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Chelilim this morning and assured him that the Judiciary will establish a permanent Court of Appeal in Eldoret,” said the Chief Justice.
In response to the county’s requests for expediting case resolutions, the judiciary has plans to post an additional judge to Eldoret, a move that aims to alleviate backlog of cases in courts and ensure timely justice delivery.
“We will also post an additional judge to Eldoret following a request to expedite cases in the county,” added CJ Koome.
According to Chief Justice Martha Koome, in reinforcing its commitment to accessible justice, the Judiciary has gazetted new courts in Moiben, Turbo, Chepkorio, and Soi.
Jonathan Bii Chelilim, the Uasin Gishu County Governor, speaking during the launch of the courts echoed the move saying it is a significant milestone in the county’s judicial landscape, promising enhanced legal services and greater access to justice for its citizens.
“Our residents will realize that this form of justice promotes restorative justice by healing relationships and communities rather than simply punishing offenders. As a result, communities will become more resilient, capable of handling disputes internally and preventing escalation,” noted Governor Bii
Commending the collaborative efforts of the county government, the Judiciary acknowledged Uasin Gishu’s support in providing space for court construction and establishing Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) suites.
In addition to infrastructure development, the Judiciary will undertake sensitization programs on multi-door justice initiatives, aimed at reaching vulnerable and marginalized groups. These initiatives will provide various avenues for dispute resolution, ensuring inclusive access to legal redress.
“We will undertake sensitization on the multi-door justice initiatives we are undertaking to reach the vulnerable and marginalised in our society,” said the Chief Justice.
Governor Chelilim was also appealed to assist in securing housing for judges and judicial officers working in the county, facilitating their accommodation and contributing to the overall efficiency of the judicial system in Uasin Gishu.
“I appeal to Governor Chelilim to assist the Judiciary secure housing for judges and judicial officers working in the county,” added the Chief Justice
However Isaac Ruto has urged the members to use the AJS and Mediation to solve cases to ensure they maintain relationships and save on time and money.
He also made an appeal for establishments of more courts in every constituency in Kenya.
“We want a court in every constituency in Kenya in order to achieve devolution,” noted Isaac Ruto JSC Member.
These initiatives promise improved legal services, restorative justice, and a more resilient community, setting a strong example for judicial progress in Kenya.