The Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW has reaffirmed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ commitment to supporting judicial reforms and enhancing the efficiency of Kenya’s appellate justice system. Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of Hon. Justice Gatembu Kairu as the new President of the Court of Appeal, the DPP described the occasion as a significant milestone in Kenya’s justice sector, saying it represented not only a transition in leadership but a renewed commitment to the rule of law, constitutionalism, and the values of justice enshrined in the Constitution.
“It is with profound honour and humility that I stand before you today to witness and celebrate this solemn occasion,” the DPP said. “This ceremony is not merely a formal transition of leadership; it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the rule of law, constitutionalism, and the enduring values of justice that anchor our Republic.” The DPP underscored the pivotal role played by the Court of Appeal within Kenya’s judicial system, noting that the court serves as the guardian of appellate jurisprudence and the institution responsible for resolving some of the country’s most complex legal questions. He said its decisions provide consistency in the interpretation of the law and have a far-reaching impact on the lives of Kenyans.
However, he acknowledged that the court continues to grapple with significant challenges, which he said have contributed to delays in the administration of justice, affecting litigants and public confidence in the judicial process. He emphasized that addressing these issues would require visionary leadership, sustained institutional commitment, and collaboration across the justice sector. The DPP praised the new Court of Appeal President’s distinguished judicial career, describing it as one marked by integrity, scholarship, and unwavering dedication to justice. “We are confident that under your stewardship, the Court of Appeal will continue to rise to these challenges, strengthening its role as a beacon of fairness, impartiality, and judicial excellence,” he said.
The DPP also welcomed recent efforts to strengthen the appellate court through the recruitment of additional Court of Appeal judges, as well as the establishment of new Court of Appeal stations and sub-registries across the country. He noted that these initiatives would play a crucial role in reducing case backlogs, improving access to justice, and enhancing service delivery. The DPP reaffirmed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ readiness to work closely with the Judiciary in implementing reforms aimed at expediting the determination of appeals. “As the Director of Public Prosecutions, I am acutely aware of how delays in appellate processes affect not only litigants but also broader public confidence in justice,” he said. “Timely resolution of appeals is essential to ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.” He pledged the ODPP’s unwavering support in advancing reforms, improving efficiency, and upholding the constitutional promise of access to justice for all Kenyans.
In his congratulatory message, the DPP wished Justice Kairu wisdom, courage, and success as he assumes leadership of the country’s second-highest court, expressing confidence that his tenure would be characterized by innovation, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving every Kenyan. “On behalf of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, I extend heartfelt congratulations to you. We stand ready to walk alongside you and the Court of Appeal in the noble task of strengthening our justice system and safeguarding the rule of law,” he said.
The DPP called on all stakeholders within the justice sector to continue working together towards building a judicial system that inspires public confidence by delivering timely, fair, and transformative justice. “Let us continue to build a justice system that Kenyans can trust, one that delivers not only judgments but also hope, fairness, and transformation,” he said.
