Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has issued a strong call for urgent and progressive reforms within Kenya’s judiciary to address systemic issues that prevent vulnerable groups from accessing timely and fair justice. In his statement, Ngetich stressed the need for Chief Justice Martha Koome and the judiciary to implement more comprehensive measures to eliminate the deep-rooted corruption and inefficiencies that have plagued the system.
While acknowledging recent public sensitization initiatives by the judiciary, Ngetich highlighted that these efforts must be complemented by concrete actions to tackle the growing culture of corruption and interference within the legal profession. He pointed to the slow return of the practice of file tampering and disappearance, which was once a common problem but now appears to be resurfacing. “The old culture of file tampering and disappearance is sneaking back slowly, and this is something that must be urgently addressed if we are to restore trust in our judicial system,” Ngetich said.
In addition to this, Ngetich emphasized the need for the judiciary to tackle unnecessary adjournments and routine mentions, which are often exploited by suspects and criminals to delay proceedings and prolong cases. He also called for greater transparency and communication when it comes to case transfers or relocations, urging that citizens be informed in advance of any delays or changes to their cases to avoid unnecessary confusion or disruption in justice delivery. “The public must be informed on the reasons behind case transfers and relocations to prevent further delays, misleading information, and non-attendance by parties involved in the cases,” Ngetich noted.
The activist also made it clear that the judiciary's performance should be measured not by the number of cases filed, but by the speed and quality of justice delivered. “The real scorecard for the judiciary’s performance should be based on the timely delivery of justice that is genuine, accurate, and accountable. Justice should not be a privilege for a few but a right for all Kenyans,” he stated.
He further emphasized the importance of rooting out corruption at every level of the judiciary, including judicial officers, court staff, magistrates, judges, lawyers, and even ordinary citizens who may contribute to obstructing justice. “We must ensure that those who perpetuate corruption—be it judicial officers, court staff, magistrates, judges, lawyers, or ordinary citizens—are held accountable. Vigilance and prosecution of offenders must be the priority in the fight against corruption within the judiciary,” Ngetich urged.
Ngetich concluded his statement by reaffirming that a fair and efficient judiciary is critical to achieving justice for all Kenyans, particularly those who have long been marginalized by systemic issues. “The fight against corruption and the demand for accountability must continue, and the judiciary must show leadership in ensuring that justice is not delayed or denied to those who need it most,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concerns from the public about the challenges facing the judiciary, including long delays in court proceedings, undue influence from cartels, and the manipulation of legal processes. The call for reform seeks to ensure that the judiciary serves its primary role as a defender of justice, free from corruption and interference.