By Janet Nyamwamu
Chief Justice Martha Koome has launched the 2024/2025 Annual Report on the Administration of Justice in Kenya, highlighting progress and ongoing challenges in the country’s justice system.
The report provides an in-depth review of institutional performance, transparency, and collaboration, with a renewed call for reforms that place citizens at the centre of justice delivery.
A key feature of the report is the introduction of a new Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Guiding Framework, designed to track progress, strengthen accountability, and coordinate efforts across the justice sector.
Senior officials from all branches of government attended the launch, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei.
Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) member Stephen Mogaka, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, and Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco also actively participated in the event.
Murkomen urged closer cooperation between the justice and security sectors, warning that excessively lenient bail terms can undermine public trust.
“When bail terms are too lenient, the public loses faith in the justice system,” he cautioned.
Chief Justice Koome, who chairs the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), commended progress in reducing case backlogs and strengthening collaboration among justice agencies.
The report shows that 516,121 cases were filed and 509,664 concluded in the last financial year, translating to a 99% case clearance rate. Backlogged cases fell by 10%, while Kadhis’ Courts achieved over 80% reduction.
“Better monitoring and evaluation throughout the justice sector is vital for identifying gaps and pushing for reforms. This report is not just about numbers; it’s about restoring public confidence in justice,” Koome said.
She reaffirmed the judiciary’s independence, noting: “The Constitution defines my mandate. The separation of powers must be honoured if justice is to flourish.”
On his part, Mogaka who represented JLAC, commended the judiciary and NCAJ for uniting state and non-state actors to enhance coordination and accountability.
He also called for greater public participation in justice budgeting and for empowering Court Users’ Committees (CUCs) to address local justice needs.
The report presents a cautiously optimistic picture: a 99% case clearance rate, 10% overall backlog reduction, and expanded use of digital systems such as e-filing and online hearings.
However, funding constraints remain, with an estimated KSh 7 billion deficit affecting staffing and infrastructure.
Kenya’s justice sector reforms have attracted attention across Africa as potential models for reforming judicial systems on the continent.
The data-driven and inclusive approach aligns with the African Union’s 2030 Agenda for People-Centred Justice.
“Justice reform is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey,” Koome concluded.
“Every African nation must walk this path to create societies founded on fairness, dignity, and the rule of law.”
