To improve openness in the judiciary, Chief Justice Martha Koome has issued a new direction requiring cash bails to be processed in open court.
According to the chief Justice, this is in accordance with the Judiciary’s employment of technology to enable electronic payment of court fees, fines, and deposits, therefore boosting judicial system efficiency.
Every plea-taking session will include two Court Assistants, according to a new regulation published on Thursday by the Judiciary.
The Chief Justice stated that the first assistant will support the Magistrate with various court duties, while the second assistant will handle the processing of fine and cash bail payments.
“This includes generating invoices, providing copies to the accused, and facilitating payments through the online portal.”
Further, accused persons who cannot make payments in open court will receive an invoice and be given a reasonable period to settle their fines or cash bail.
Justice Koome stated that committal warrants will be prepared for those who fail to pay by 4pm on the day of their plea.
“These guidelines represent a significant step towards a more streamlined and technology-driven judicial system, ensuring timely and transparent handling of fines and cash bail, ultimately benefiting court users and the administration of justice,” she noted.
The Chief Justice added that all pleas will be registered by 9am and, if not possible, the court users’ committees will give further directions.
