Nairobi: Members of the public have been challenged to exploit provisions of various tribunals to amicably resolve disputes to cut on litigation costs. The Judiciary Deputy Registrar, Paul Ndemo, told a Tribunal Awareness Forum at the Nairobi Milimani Law Courts, that it was important for the residents to use such avenues to also help local courts reduce the case backlog.
According to Kenya News Agency, the two-day event was geared towards educating members of the public on the role of tribunals in dispute resolution as an alternative to the traditional judicial process. "The forum aims to engage participants in understanding tribunal systems and processes, recognizing their role in facilitating effective dispute resolution, and enhancing justice process to the public," said Ndemo.
Despite some members of the public viewing tribunals as unofficial, the Deputy Registrar assured the public of their legitimacy and urged more lawyers and advocates to work with them. He emphasized that tribunals offer avenues for advocates to generate income, addressing the misconception that there might not be sufficient legal fees.
A strong invitation was issued to Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Chairpersons across the country, and trade union members to collaborate and sensitize advocates, as a lack of awareness often leads to under-utilization of these crucial forums. He expressed optimism on the popularity of tribunals, noting that over 10,000 cases have been filed in various tribunals in this Financial Year alone.
According to the Deputy Registrar, tribunals are indispensable to Kenya's judicial system. They provide specialized, affordable, and accessible forums for sector-specific disputes, thereby relieving pressure on regular courts and strengthening formal dispute resolution institutions. However, Ndemo noted that significant progress has been recorded since the integration of tribunals into the judiciary, there is still much work to be done.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step," he said. Attendees at the event included the Registrar of Tribunals, Anne Asugah, Law Society of Kenya Nairobi Branch Chairman, Erick Kivuva, Head of Station, Milimani Law Courts, Lucas Onyinya, and representatives from Kituo Cha Sheria.