The Judicial Service Commission, mandated to promote and safeguard the independence, accountability, and effective administration of justice, participated in the presentation of the State of the Judiciary and Administration of Justice Annual Report 2023-2024. The report detailed significant milestones in enhancing access to justice while outlining the challenges faced by the Judiciary in delivering timely and equitable justice to all Kenyans.
Chief Justice Martha Koome emphasized the progress made, stating:
“This State of the Judiciary and Administration of Justice Report not only highlights the milestones we have achieved and the innovative reforms we are implementing, but it also provides an open view of the challenges we continue to address as we work to strengthen our institution. The improvement in case clearance and backlog reduction translates to a more responsive and efficient justice system. Kenyans are increasingly assured of prompt dispute resolution, evidence that our initiatives to ensure the efficiency of the justice system are yielding positive results.”
Despite the successes highlighted in the report, JSC Vice Chairperson Isaac Rutto underlined the pressing challenges that persist, particularly the issue of inadequate funding. He remarked:
“As we celebrate the achievements in the 2023-2024 financial year, we must also acknowledge the challenges that continue to hamper the administration of justice. One of the most pressing is the issue of insufficient funding. Inadequate financial resources impact our ability to open more courts, expand infrastructure, recruit and train judicial staff, and invest in necessary technology.”
The report serves as a vital tool for transparency and accountability, showcasing the Judiciary’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible, timely, and efficient for all.
