Wajir residents have called for firmer court action against drug abuse, illicit brewing and repeat offenders, saying they should be subjected to severe punishment, as the vices have led to moral decay in the region.
The forum brought together members of the public and justice sector stakeholders to review court service delivery and address gaps affecting access to justice and public safety.
Speaking during the Annual Judiciary Dialogue Day held by Wajir Law Courts in Wajir town, Wajir Magistrate Eric Malisa said the dialogue was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Judiciary and the public in addressing justice-related challenges.
“The Constitution vests the sovereign power in the people, exercised through institutions such as the Judiciary. This engagement provides a platform for residents to share their concerns and propose solutions to improve service delivery,” said Malisa.
Religious leaders raised concerns over increasing cases of illicit brews and drug abuse, saying the vice was destroying young people and contributing to insecurity.
Sheikh Abdi Hasan urged the courts to apply penalties provided under the law to deter offenders, noting that suspects often returned to the community shortly after arrest.
Advocate Hashim Elmoge said effective justice required cooperation between the courts and the public.
“In serious cases such as defilement, some complainants and witnesses withdraw from the cases due to private settlements, leading to stalled or collapsed cases. This undermines justice and must be addressed jointly by the courts and the community,” he said.
Assistant Chief Nasra Farah said local administrators faced difficulties in controlling drug trafficking and illicit brewing, appealing for firm legal action to curb the vice.
“Drug abuse has ruined many young lives. Suspected peddlers are arrested but often return quickly, especially in areas such as Barwaqo. We are appealing for firm action within the law,” she said.
Participants also raised concerns over alleged corruption, leniency in theft cases and the welfare of suspects and inmates, particularly remandees.
Magistrate Malisa assured residents that the concerns raised would inform efforts to improve court operations and enhance access to justice while upholding the rule of law.
“The views shared today will inform our efforts to enhance access to justice while upholding the law in dealing with drug-related and other offences,” he said.
The annual dialogue is part of the Judiciary’s public engagement strategy aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and trust in the justice system at the county level.
By Hamdi Buthul
