Nairobi: Chief Justice Martha Koome has emphasized the pivotal role of heads of court stations in driving performance and ensuring access to justice across the country. Addressing the 12th Annual Heads of Station Forum in Wote town, Makueni County, she highlighted the importance of leadership in maintaining functional systems and fostering responsibility among court staff.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chief Justice Koome underscored the significance of strong leadership at the stations, which she described as essential for cultivating excellence within the judiciary. She urged heads of stations to take responsibility not only for their output but also for inspiring and guiding their colleagues. "Heads of Station are the cornerstone of our success," she remarked, emphasizing their role in setting standards and holding their teams accountable.
The forum, themed 'Enhancing Access to Justice through Efficient and Sustainable Registry Operations,' presented an opportunity for Koome to challenge the 143 Magistrates Court Stations and 14 standalone Kadhi's Courts to expedite case resolutions. She noted the importance of resolving cases promptly to avoid prolonged litigation, which often frustrates litigants and advocates. The Chief Justice revealed that, in the first three quarters of the 2024/2025 financial year, 267,385 cases were filed and 269,067 were concluded at a Case Clearance Rate of 97.3 percent.
Koome also addressed the issue of corruption within court registries, highlighting that bribery claims have eroded public trust in the judiciary. She stated that services should be provided without unofficial fees and emphasized the need to root out corrupt practices to restore integrity. "The salary our court staff earn each month is the only entitlement to offer service," she asserted.
During the forum, the Chief Justice launched the Mahakama Popote Guidelines, a set of procedures allowing judiciary officers to handle cases virtually using technology. Since its inception in October 2022, the platform has registered 17,389 cases, with 12,940 concluded by March 2025.
Additionally, Koome directed heads of station to clear succession cases pending for over three years by December 2025 and announced plans to recruit 100 additional resident magistrates and adjudicators to enhance judicial capacity.
Makueni County Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili also spoke at the forum, expressing concern over the rise of gender-based violence and defilement cases in the county. She emphasized the need for quick resolutions and highlighted ongoing county programs aimed at educating residents about succession matters.