- CJ Koome affirms commitment to judicial integrity and efficiency.
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Launches Court Integrity Committees to combat corruption.
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Judiciary adopts intelligence-led model to tackle graft.
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Calls for reduced adjournments and better case management.
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Emphasizes technology’s role in enhancing justice delivery.
Chief Justice Martha Koome has reiterated the Judiciary’s stance against corruption, emphasizing that justice is not for sale. Speaking at the 2025 Magistrates and Kadhis Colloquium, she assured the public that her administration is committed to eradicating inefficiencies and delays in court processes.
“Justice cannot be compromised for anything. That is why we are intensifying our focus on improving case management,” Koome declared.
Acknowledging growing concerns over case delays and corruption allegations, Koome challenged judicial officers to embrace accountability and transparency, noting that the Judiciary must remain a corruption-free institution.
Strengthening Integrity Measures
To reinforce ethical conduct within the Judiciary, Koome announced the establishment of Court Integrity Committees in all court stations. These committees will serve as watchdogs, addressing misconduct and ensuring judicial officers uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
She urged judicial officers to not only implement these committees but also ensure they function effectively.
“Our mission is clear- we must uphold justice with integrity and efficiency,” she emphasized.
Proactive Anti-Corruption Approach
Koome also launched the Justice Sector’s Anti-Corruption Strategic Guiding Framework, an initiative bringing together various justice sector stakeholders to combat graft. Unlike the traditional complaints-based approach, the Judiciary is now shifting to an intelligence-led model in collaboration with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
“This partnership allows us to proactively identify and disrupt corruption networks before they undermine justice,” she stated.
Previously, anti-corruption efforts relied heavily on complaints submitted to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the Office of the Judiciary Ombudsman, but Koome noted these methods had limitations.
Addressing Delays and Case Management Issues
Koome’s leadership has faced scrutiny over delays in court proceedings and the conduct of some judicial officers, with calls for the removal of certain judges, even at the Supreme Court level.
She warned against scheduling hearings on days when presiding officers are unavailable, arguing that such inefficiencies fuel negative perceptions of the Judiciary. Additionally, she called for an end to frequent case adjournments, stating that they erode public confidence in the justice system.
“As judicial officers, we must be mindful of how many cases we list each day to ensure they are realistically manageable,” she urged.
Embracing Technology for Better Service Delivery
Reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to modernization, Koome highlighted the role of technology in improving access to justice. However, she stressed that digital transformation will only be successful if judicial officers actively embrace and utilize these tools effectively.
With these reforms, the Chief Justice aims to restore trust in Kenya’s judicial system and ensure that justice is not only served but also seen to be served.
