COUNTY GOVERNMENT, JUDICIARY STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP TO ENHANCE ACCESS TO JUSTICE

H.E. Dr. Fernandes Barasa, FCPA, OGW., today hosted the Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, Honourable Lady Justice Martha Koome, EGH, at the Kakamega County Headquarters for high-level consultations aimed at strengthening collaboration between the County Government and the Judiciary in the administration of justice and the advancement of devolution.

During the meeting, Governor Barasa presented a memorandum outlining key proposals to enhance access to justice, strengthen the enforcement of county legislation and improve public service delivery. He commended the Judiciary for expanding judicial services through the establishment of the Court of Appeal Bench in Kakamega and the Small Claims Court in Mumias, noting that the initiatives have brought justice closer to the people.

The consultations resulted in several key resolutions. The Judiciary accepted the Governor’s proposal to establish a court station in Likuyani to serve residents of Likuyani and Lugari sub-counties, a move that will significantly improve access to justice in the northern part of Kakamega County. The Judiciary also committed to ensuring the operationalisation of the Kakamega County Court to strengthen the enforcement of county legislation and facilitate the efficient determination of matters arising under county laws.

Governor Barasa further requested the deployment of additional judicial officers to the Kakamega Law Courts to help reduce case backlogs and ensure the timely administration of justice.

The Governor also expressed the County Government’s readiness to support the establishment of an Alternative Justice System (AJS) to promote mediation and other community-based dispute resolution mechanisms. He thanked Chief Justice Martha Koome for her leadership in expanding access to justice across the country and said the County Government looks forward to continued collaboration with the Judiciary in building an efficient, accessible and people-centred justice system.

Also present were Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Mr. Renson Ingonga, judges, County Attorney CS Vivianne Mmbaka, and senior officials from both the Judiciary and County Government.