Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu Friday emphasized that subordinate courts, particularly the magistracy, are the engine of justice provision in the Judiciary.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the annual Magistrates and Kadhis Colloquium, the DCJ said a total of 336,947 cases were initiated in 2021/22 in the Magistrates’ Courts with 308,482 cases resolved.
She urged magistrates and Kadhis to ensure fairness, efficiency and effectiveness while observing speed in handling all matters before them.
“If you do so, you will live up to your solemn responsibility and the critical role you play in the realization of the aspirations of all Kenyans,” said DCJ Mwilu.
She observed that Alternative Dispute Resolution, Alternative Justice Systems, and Tribunals, provide such avenues to which many matters lodged in the Magistrates’ Courts can be redirected.
The theme of the Colloquium is “Social Transformation through Access to Justice: Building Magistrates Courts of Excellence.”