A former probation officer in the judiciary has urged investigating agencies to conduct thorough investigations in order to facilitate the administration of justice in courts.
Speaking to the press in Kenyenya Sub-County in Kisii, the retired probation officer Elijah Monda noted that poor investigations had often led to the dismissal of cases due to lack of sufficient evidence.
“Magistrates and judges depend heavily on the evidence presented before them, and it is the responsibility of the police to carry out investigations at the earliest opportunity to ensure justice is served,” said Monda.
The ex-probation officer decried the laxity by some investigating officers who do not visit crime scenes promptly, thereby missing vital information.
According to him, the manipulation of witnesses by complainants to testify in a particular manner had also contributed to distorted outcomes.
“Some complainants influence witnesses to testify in their favor, and the witness accounts end up tampering with evidence, hence denying justice to the innocent,” Monda explained.
In addition, he pointed out that cultural barriers remain a major challenge in obtaining accurate information, noting that in some communities, information can only be shared through the head of the family—often the father—who may alter facts to favour one side.
As such, Monda urged the government to deploy investigation officers who are familiar with the local culture, adding that the officers can easily access reliable, first-hand information from the community.
Since his retirement in 2023, the former probation officer has remained active in judicial and community matters at Ogembo, where he is widely consulted on land and cultural issues.
By Mercy Osongo
