By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, in furthering the DPP’s strategic objectives regarding inter-agency cooperation and the enhancement of staff capabilities, conducted a two-day training session for prosecutors from Kisumu, Siaya, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, and Nyamira counties.
This training focused on the implementation of essential prosecutorial policies, such as the Decision to Charge Guidelines, Plea Bargaining, and Diversion Policies.
During the opening remarks, delivered by Ms. Munyolo Omusebe on behalf of ODPP Nyanza regional coordinator Ms. Catherine Mwaniki, the significance of the training was emphasized.
It was highlighted as a crucial step in ensuring that prosecutorial decisions are executed in a manner that is fair, transparent, and consistent.
Ms. Mwaniki urged the prosecutors to maintain the rule of law and to ensure that justice is administered effectively and efficiently in their daily prosecutorial duties, while strictly adhering to the Decision to Charge Guidelines.
The training session, led by Alloys Kemo, the Acting Secretary of Public Prosecutions, alongside Zachary Omwega, the Head of the Judicial Review Division, aimed to provide prosecutors with essential tools and knowledge to administer justice effectively while adhering to constitutional principles.
As stated by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), this session, supported by the International Justice Mission Kenya, highlighted the critical need to follow the Decision to Charge Guidelines to ensure that cases advance only when there is adequate evidence.
Speaking during the training, Mr. Kemo highlighted the critical role of prosecutors in upholding justice and accountability.
“As ministers of justice, we must apply these policies with integrity, fairness, and objectivity. Our goal is not just convictions but ensuring that justice is served for all parties involved,” he said.
Mr. Omwega emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in the application of judicial review principles, noting that the training represents a significant advancement in improving prosecutorial decision-making and bolstering public trust in the justice system.
Ms. Caroline Kiarie, representing the International Justice Mission, commended the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for its dedication to institutional reforms.
“IJM pledged continued support in building prosecutors’ capacity to promote access to justice, particularly for vulnerable communities,” the ODPP said.
This initiative forms part of the broader efforts by the ODPP, led by Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, to foster efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Kenya’s prosecutorial processes.