Kisumu: The national government, through the Office of the Attorney General, has launched the National Legal Aid Service (NLAS) programme aimed at providing free legal aid to vulnerable communities. This significant step is intended to enhance accessibility, affordability, and approachability of legal assistance for those in need.
According to Kenya News Agency, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor emphasized the importance of this initiative during her address at Othoo SDA church in Nyando Constituency, Kisumu County. Her remarks came as part of a church empowerment programme where she highlighted the government's dedication to ensuring equal access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their financial status.
AG Oduor stated that the initiative seeks to dismantle barriers that prevent financially vulnerable individuals from accessing justice. She reinforced the idea that justice is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Constitution, and should not be perceived as a privilege reserved only for those who can afford it.
The programme specifically targets underserved communities and indigent groups, including children, women, and widows, ensuring that they receive expeditious justice in both civil and criminal court cases. Oduor revealed that within three months, NLAS will begin supporting women and widows who lack the means for legal representation.
Oduor also addressed the rising number of criminal cases involving children, pledging that the government would provide free support for youth and children navigating the judicial system. Additionally, the initiative will support individuals unable to afford legal representation in land disputes, offering them necessary legal assistance at no cost.
The NLAS is designed to aid marginalized individuals across a spectrum of legal issues, including civil, criminal, child-related matters, constitutional issues, and public interest litigation. Community outreach clinics will also be conducted by the programme, bringing legal assistance closer to the people and facilitating easier access to these essential services.