Chief Justice Martha Koome has officially launched the Mahakama Popote Guidelines, a strategic framework designed to streamline virtual case management and improve access to justice across Kenya.
The guidelines govern the Judiciary’s digital platform that allows judicial officers to handle cases regardless of geographical location, thereby maximizing the efficient deployment of personnel and resources. Implemented within the Magistrates’ Courts, Mahakama Popote has handled 17,389 cases since October 2022, with 12,940 already concluded by March 2025.
“This innovation removes geographical barriers and promotes flexibility, efficiency, and timely access to justice,” CJ Koome said during the opening of the 12th Annual Heads of Station Forum in Makueni County.
Commending judicial officers for their commitment, Koome highlighted their crucial role in upholding the rule of law, even during politically sensitive moments. She cited instances where bail applications and habeas corpus petitions were heard beyond regular court hours as proof of the Judiciary’s resilience and dedication.
Themed “Enhancing Access to Justice through Efficient and Sustainable Registry Operations,” the forum brought together Heads of Station from 143 Magistrates’ Courts and 14 Kadhis’ Courts. CJ Koome emphasized that these officers supervise over 80 percent of Judiciary staff and are often the first point of contact for court users.
“Our leadership in court operations—from judgment delivery timelines to registry supervision—determines whether the Judiciary thrives or falters,” she remarked.
Addressing public concerns, the Chief Justice condemned corruption in court registries, particularly the practice of soliciting unofficial payments. She urged strict accountability and directed Court Integrity Committees to proactively address unethical conduct, while encouraging escalation of serious cases to oversight institutions such as the Judiciary Ombudsman and the EACC.
CJ Koome also presented strong performance metrics for the Judiciary. Between July 2024 and March 2025, Magistrates’ Courts recorded a Case Clearance Rate (CCR) of 97.3%, with 62 courts surpassing 100%. Kigumo Law Court led in both criminal (156%) and civil (236%) CCRs. Kadhis’ Courts posted an overall CCR of 97%, led by Kwale at 144%.
Heads of Station were tasked with clearing all cases pending over three years and implementing Rapid Results Initiatives (RRIs) for uncontested succession matters by December 20.
Makueni County Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili commended the Judiciary for expediting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and succession cases. “For the first time, we realized even educated citizens are unaware of succession procedures. We’re now budgeting to support these cases at the ward level,” she said.
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya noted that the forum serves as a key platform for judicial leadership to align on supervision, resource use, ethics, and institutional excellence. She assured participants that no court station will face further budget cuts, reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to facilitating justice despite funding constraints.
The launch of Mahakama Popote Guidelines marks a major milestone in the Judiciary’s ongoing modernization efforts, reaffirming its mission to deliver justice that is accessible, timely, and people-centered.
Written By Rodney Mbua
