MOMBASA, Kenya –Chief Justice Martha Koome has called on judges to adopt improved case management practices to prevent the accumulation of pending judgments and ensure timely delivery of justice.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Annual High Court Leaders Conference at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort in Mombasa, Koome emphasized the importance of adhering to the statutory requirement of delivering judgments within 60 days of the conclusion of hearings.
Despite this legal requirement, the Chief Justice acknowledged the continued complaints from litigants, with some cases remaining unresolved for over a year.
Koome stressed the need for Rapid Results Initiatives (RRI) to expedite judgment delivery, particularly for sensitive cases such as family, succession, and commercial matters.
“These categories of cases are not only critical but also deeply impactful to the parties involved. It is unjustifiable for litigants to wait for years, especially in uncontested succession matters, where no dispute exists,” she said.
In addition to addressing case management issues, Koome also raised concerns about brokers and imposters within the judiciary, noting that their presence tarnishes the image of the judicial system.
These individuals, who falsely position themselves as intermediaries, have contributed to negative public perceptions of the judiciary.
To tackle this issue, Koome revealed that she had engaged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the presence of such individuals in court facilities.
She also announced the establishment of court integrity committees at each High Court station and division.
These committees, she explained, would bring together all relevant justice sector stakeholders to develop strategies to prevent and address corruption.
“We recognize that many of the complaints regarding corruption are not always directed at judges or judiciary staff but may involve actors from other justice sector agencies operating within court premises,” Koome added.
The Chief Justice praised judges for their dedication, noting that 120 case files were reviewed during the conference.
As a result, 49 offenders will serve sentences under structured probation programs, focusing on rehabilitation and community service, while 20 others were released after demonstrating readiness for reintegration.
Koome concluded her remarks by highlighting the progress made in line with the Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ) blueprint, particularly in promoting restorative and green justice.
She reiterated that fast-tracking cases and eliminating corruption in the judiciary are crucial to maintaining public trust and ensuring the rule of law.
Fast-tracking cases and addressing integrity concerns are critical to restoring public confidence in the judiciary.
Prolonged delays in case resolution not only frustrate litigants but also undermine the foundational principle that justice delayed is justice denied.
Additionally, cracking down on brokers and imposters who exploit the system for personal gain is essential for ensuring a clean, transparent, and efficient justice system.
The efforts outlined by Chief Justice Koome represent important steps toward strengthening Kenya’s judiciary and safeguarding the rule of law.
