Collaboration between justice sector actors key to the timely administration of justice

Consistent collaboration among various agencies, particularly within the justice sector, is essential for the timely and efficient administration of justice for all.

The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP)Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW hosted a team from the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), led by Executive Director Dr. Moses Maranga. They discussed key issues that will contribute to effective, timely, and efficient justice administration in Kenya.

The NCAJ is mandated to ensure a coordinated, efficient, and consultative approach to managing justice and reforming the country’s legal system. The DPP emphasized the need for collective efforts, particularly in the criminal justice sector, by implementing various policies to address existing challenges. He highlighted that his office has developed key policies to ensure justice is served fairly. He mentioned the importance of sufficient evidence meeting the necessary threshold before any charges are filed in court.

Additionally, policies such as diversion and plea bargaining have proven effective in reducing case backlogs, thereby ensuring timely justice while conserving resources in the judiciary, investigations, and prosecution.

He urged the NCAJ to address the limitations present in Kenya’s justice system, noting that resolving these issues would enhance public trust in the institutions and improve access to timely justice for Kenyans.

Key challenges identified included: emerging issues lacking budget allocations, leading to weak responses; inefficiencies and delays in the trial process; uneven adoption of technology in justice institutions; delays in implementing reforms; inadequate human resources, particularly at the grassroots level; overcrowding in detention facilities causing custodial challenges; and rising public expectations for seamless service delivery.

Both parties agreed to undertake comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts to facilitate timely adaptation and incorporate valuable lessons to enhance access to justice in Kenya.