CJ Koome, Governor Simba Arati Champion Community Justice through AJS
Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, Hon. Justice Martha Koome, today launched the Kisii County Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) County Action Plan, Model and Suites.
Speaking during the launch, the Chief Justice said the initiative marks a significant milestone for the people of Kisii as it will bring justice closer to communities by promoting accessible, timely and culturally responsive dispute resolution mechanisms.
Justice Koome called on the Abagusii community to embrace a culture of dialogue, noting that societies that prioritize dialogue are better placed to resolve disputes amicably and foster lasting peace and social cohesion.
Kisii Governor Paul Simba Arati described the initiative as a major step towards enhancing access to justice at the grassroots.
Governor Arati said the Kisii County AJS County Action Plan, Model and Suites will strengthen collaboration between formal and traditional justice systems by providing community-based mechanisms for resolving disputes while complementing the work of the Judiciary.
“This is a landmark event that underscores the county’s shared commitment to strengthening access to justice through community-based and people-centered approaches,” said the Governor.
He noted that the courts in Kisii County continue to face a heavy caseload, much of it involving land disputes and family conflicts, many of which can be resolved more quickly, effectively and at a lower cost through Alternative Justice Systems.
“Many disputes arising within families, clans and villages can be amicably resolved at the community level with the guidance of respected elders and AJS structures. By embracing these mechanisms where appropriate, we can reduce the burden on our courts, expedite the resolution of disputes, and promote harmony and reconciliation within our communities,” he said.
The Governor added that beyond saving time and resources, AJS promotes dialogue, reconciliation and lasting social cohesion, enabling parties to preserve relationships even after disputes have been resolved, unlike the often contentious nature of lengthy court proceedings.
The formulation of the AJS County Action Plans for Kericho, Bomet and Kisii, as well as the launch, was made possible through a partnership between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Union, which are funding the Digital Land Governance Programme (DLGP).
Hon. Justice (Prof.) Joel Ngugi, Judge of the Court of Appeal and Chair of the National Steering Committee on the Implementation of Alternative Justice Systems, thanked Governor Arati for providing a dedicated space for AJS practitioners, saying the move demonstrates the County Government’s commitment to supporting the effective implementation of AJS.
He said the facility will enhance access to justice by providing a conducive environment for resolving disputes amicably, efficiently and affordably, while strengthening collaboration between the Judiciary, the County Government and local communities.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representative to Kenya, Sebastian Menza, whose organization partnered with the County Government to support the implementation of the Alternative Justice Systems programme, commended the initiative, saying it will strengthen community-based dispute resolution, promote social cohesion and contribute to sustainable development by fostering peaceful and resilient communities.
