Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the Judiciary to prioritize the resolution of cases involving children.
In a press release distributed to newsrooms on Thursday, November 3, 2022, the CJ acknowledged that the backlog of children’s cases remained an issue that needed to be addressed and urged the judiciary to improve prompt action on the matter through expeditious disposal.
“Colleagues, as we begin this year’s Service Month, let us prioritize the resolution of Children matters, particularly those that have been in courts for more than the statutory six months,” Koome said.
She also directed that the annual November Service Month on Children’s Issues be held across the country to promote children’s rights.
“To build on these gains, I have directed all courts throughout the country to hold the Annual November Service Month on Children Matters, with the goal of not only clearing backlogs of children cases but also promoting child rights within communities,” the CJ added.
Furthermore, the CJ urged the cabinet secretary in charge of children’s issues to expedite the gazettement of regulations once they were finalized.
While encouraging the formation of Children’s Court User Committees, the CJ also urged them to work with law enforcement officers and other relevant authorities to ensure that justice for children is effectively implemented.
