The Makadara Law Courts are set to reopen in phases following a two-week closure prompted by the tragic shooting of principal magistrate Monica Kivuti, as announced by Chief Justice Martha Koome.
The reopening plan includes several coordinated measures aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of judicial staff and court users.
Chief Justice Koome outlined a series of steps to precede the reopening on July 1, starting with a three day counseling session from June 24 to June 26 for staff and magistrates affected by the incident.
Professional counselors will conduct both individual and group sessions to address trauma.
Simultaneously, the Directorate of Building Services will oversee the dismantling of makeshift structures at the courts.
The second phase, scheduled for June 27, involves convening the Court Users Committee (CUC) to discuss operational modalities and review enhanced security measures.
By June 28, the court diaries will be reorganized based on CUC recommendations, ensuring that only secure courtrooms are used for plea taking.
Notices will be issued regarding new dates for affected cases, including guidance on virtual hearings and bail payments.
Justice Koome emphasized additional security protocols across all courts nationwide, such as stringent firearm checks, mandatory identification for litigants, and restricted parking.
Each court station will implement measures to safeguard judicial chambers, deploy staff and ICT resources at customer service desks, and make necessary infrastructural adjustments.
Furthermore, the Judiciary plans to collaborate with external agencies to implement comprehensive long-term security strategies.
These efforts aim to guarantee the safety of judges, judicial officers, staff, and court users, underscoring the Judiciary’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment amidst recent challenges.
The phased reopening strategy reflects a proactive approach to addressing the aftermath of the tragic incident while ensuring the continued delivery of judicial services with enhanced security measures in place.
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