Chief Justice Martha Koome has reiterated her commitment to promoting Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) as a viable solution for resolving disputes outside the conventional legal framework. She emphasized that AJS offers an efficient way to address conflicts while fostering peace among communities, families, and disputed parties.
Speaking during the launch of shared tribunals and the City Court in Kisumu, Koome underscored the necessity of embracing these alternative approaches to conflict resolution. She noted that formal courts often become congested with cases that could otherwise be resolved amicably through traditional methods, mediation, and other community-based interventions.
“AJS is designed to ensure that justice is accessible to all, particularly marginalized communities,” Koome stated. “It not only strengthens social harmony but also enables faster resolutions without the often costly and time-consuming legal battles.”
The Chief Justice urged Kenyans to respect the rule of law, highlighting that many disputes can be settled outside the court system. She encouraged communities to seek reconciliation and adopt dialogue-driven approaches rather than resorting to litigation for minor disagreements.
Koome’s push for AJS aligns with Kenya’s broader judicial reforms aimed at making justice more inclusive and adaptable to different social contexts. The establishment of shared tribunals and the City Court in Kisumu marks a significant step toward decentralizing justice, ensuring that legal services reach all citizens efficiently.
Legal experts and community leaders have welcomed Koome’s initiative, citing its potential to ease the burden on formal courts and strengthen traditional dispute resolution mechanisms. The model is expected to empower local arbitrators and elders in resolving conflicts while preserving cultural and communal ties.
As Kisumu embraces these new judicial reforms, residents are encouraged to utilize AJS mechanisms as a first step in conflict resolution. With the Chief Justice leading the charge, Kenya moves closer to a justice system that is both accessible and attuned to the needs of its people.
By Laban Shikokoti
