Budget Constraints Hamper Security Enhancements for Judiciary Staff: Chief Justice Koome Calls for Urgent Reforms

Chief Justice Martha Koome has recently expressed urgent concerns over the inadequate security arrangements for Kenya’s judiciary staff, citing budget constraints as a significant hurdle in enhancing safety measures. Addressing attendees at the Judiciary-Development Partners annual roundtable meeting on Monday, Koome highlighted the pressing need for reforms to address the alarming security challenges faced by judicial officers.

Koome’s remarks came in the wake of a tragic incident in June, where Makadara Law Court Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti was shot while delivering a ruling. The incident, which occurred in a makeshift court structure outside the building, underscores the critical need for enhanced security protocols within the judiciary. “Following the tragic killing of one of our judicial officers in open court in June, we have been forced to reexamine our security arrangements,” Koome said. She emphasized the necessity of partnerships in improving security for court infrastructure and personnel to prevent future tragedies.

The Chief Justice revealed that budgetary constraints have impeded the implementation of essential security plans. The limitations have delayed crucial measures aimed at safeguarding judicial personnel and fortifying court facilities. Koome called for urgent support and collaboration from development partners and stakeholders to address these security concerns effectively.

In addition to addressing security issues, Koome also outlined plans to expand wellness programs for judicial staff. The new initiatives aim to include psychosocial support, acknowledging the mental and emotional strain faced by judicial officers due to their demanding roles. Koome urged for partnerships to fund and implement these wellness programs, which are crucial for the overall well-being of judiciary personnel.

Despite progress made in various judicial reforms, Koome noted that access to justice remains a significant challenge. The Chief Justice pointed out that while High Courts operate in 46 of Kenya’s 47 counties, less than half of the country’s constituencies have Magistrates’ Courts. “Currently, only 139 constituencies have Magistrates’ Courts, leaving over 151 constituencies without one,” Koome said. This discrepancy highlights the existing justice gap and the need for further collaboration to ensure equitable access to justice across all regions.

To address these disparities, Koome disclosed that specialized courts are being established to handle specific types of cases. These include small claims, gender-based violence cases, and children’s justice, which are designed to provide swift and trauma-informed resolutions. The establishment of these specialized courts aims to address the diverse needs of the population and ensure that justice is delivered efficiently and sensitively.

Koome’s call for urgent reforms and enhanced security measures reflects a broader need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard judiciary personnel and improve access to justice. The collaboration between the judiciary, development partners, and stakeholders will be crucial in overcoming these challenges and fostering a more secure and equitable justice system in Kenya.

As Kenya’s judiciary faces these significant hurdles, the Chief Justice’s emphasis on partnership and reform offers a hopeful path forward. Addressing the security and access to justice gaps will require concerted efforts and resources, but with collaborative support, it is possible to create a safer and more accessible judicial environment for all.