The Vihiga County Government and the Judiciary have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration aimed at enhancing access to justice, promoting people-centred dispute resolution, and accelerating the delivery of judicial services across the county.
This follows a courtesy call by Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, Martha Koome, on Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo at the County Headquarters.
The meeting focused on deepening cooperation under the Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ) Blueprint, a framework designed to make justice more accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of wananchi.
Chief Justice Koome said the partnership seeks to bring justice services closer to the people by expanding Alternative Justice Systems (AJS), strengthening court-user services, and ensuring disputes are resolved fairly, efficiently, and with dignity.
She emphasised the judiciary’s commitment to building a justice system that is accessible and responsive through collaboration with county governments and other stakeholders.
Governor Ottichilo welcomed the initiative, noting that the strengthened partnership would play a critical role in improving access to justice, promoting social cohesion, and safeguarding the rights of residents.
He highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts in addressing key challenges affecting the county, particularly Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and land disputes.
The Governor further expressed support for the Judiciary’s plans to operationalise the Emuhaya Law Courts, stating that the facility will significantly improve access to judicial services for residents of the Emuhaya and Luanda sub-counties.
He affirmed the County Government’s readiness to work closely with the Judiciary to roll out the Alternative Justice Systems Initiative before the end of the year, aimed at promoting community-based dispute resolution mechanisms.
Dr. Ottichilo also commended the Judiciary for recognizing the County Government’s efforts in establishing a Gender-Based Violence Centre, describing it as a critical intervention in supporting survivors and combating GBV within the county.
Chief Justice Koome reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring judicial services are accessible to all Kenyans, adding that partnerships with county governments are key to achieving this goal. She noted that such collaborations enhance efficiency in justice delivery and contribute to building trust between the justice system and the public.
The collaboration between the judiciary and the Vihiga County Government is expected to enhance justice delivery, promote peaceful coexistence, and contribute to the county’s socio-economic development.
By Yvonne Misango and Florence Oteng’o
