Nairobi, Kenya – The Judiciary has commenced the restoration of court operations in several areas that suffered extensive damage during the recent anti-government protests, with efforts now focused on rebuilding infrastructure and ensuring the public’s uninterrupted access to justice.
Speaking during a site visit to Dagoretti and Kikuyu on Thursday, Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya confirmed that repairs were underway, supported by both public and private partners, including local business communities.
“They are very committed and promised that within 30 days, the [Dagoretti] court will be complete and operational,” Mokaya said, lauding the collaborative efforts of area stakeholders.
The Dagoretti Law Courts, which were severely vandalised on June 25, are among the worst-hit judicial facilities. In the interim, cases from the court have been redirected to Kibera Law Courts to avoid disruption in legal services.
Mokaya, accompanied by Judiciary officials, also toured Kikuyu, where protest-related unrest led to the burning of the Kikuyu Law Courts, probation offices, the sub-county administration office, and the chief’s office. Police have so far arrested 24 individuals linked to the attacks.
She reiterated that the Judiciary had allocated a budget to enhance court security and prevent future attacks on its facilities.
“We have set aside a budget to enhance the security of the court so that the premises can be protected and ensure there is safety,” Mokaya stated.
Her comments come days after Chief Justice Martha Koome condemned the wave of arson and vandalism, warning that such acts undermine the Judiciary’s ability to dispense justice and erode public trust in governance.
The protests, which erupted amid growing public frustration with the government’s handling of key economic and political issues, have left dozens dead, hundreds injured, and public infrastructure in ruins across multiple counties.
In a related development, Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga has approved terror-related charges against two youth leaders linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The charge sheet alleges they conspired with others to orchestrate targeted attacks on government facilities between midday and 11:00 p.m. on June 25.
As the Judiciary races to rebuild and secure court premises, there is renewed urgency for national dialogue, with political parties and civil society calling for calm and reconciliation in the wake of rising political tensions and growing public unres
Written by Were Kelly
