Judiciary orders release of judgements and court orders within 24 hours

Judicial officers have been directed to ensure that judgements and court orders are released within 24 hours of delivery in a move aimed at improving efficiency and accountability in the judiciary.

Chief Justice Martha Koome issued the directive following concerns raised by court users over delays in accessing judgements, decrees, summons, and orders. The order was communicated through an internal memo sent by Judiciary Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya to all heads of court stations, deputy registrars, and chairpersons of tribunals.

“The Case Tracking System (CTS) has been upgraded to require the mandatory uploading of judgements and rulings before case outcomes can be updated. This measure was introduced to ensure that litigants, advocates, and other stakeholders gain immediate access to court decisions,” Mokaya said in the memo.

She emphasised that judgements and rulings delivered by judges and judicial officers would be typed and uploaded onto the Judiciary’s e-filing portal within 24 hours to ensure timely access by parties. Additionally, court assistants have been tasked with extracting and transmitting decrees and orders within the same timeframe.

Mokaya noted that the transition to a fully online system is expected to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times, and eliminate the need for physical visits to courts.

“Physical documents will no longer be accessible from the registries,” she said, highlighting that automation would make court services available around the clock.

“With 24/7 access, users can conveniently access these services anytime and from anywhere, ensuring a seamless, efficient, and customer-focused experience,” she added.

The memo further outlined that going forward, judgements and rulings will no longer be delivered “on notice.” This means courts will no longer inform parties of a pending decision after hearings but will instead set specific dates for verdicts.

“The Case Tracking System (CTS) has been configured to ensure that judgement delivery dates are entered within the prescribed statutory timelines. If a judgement is not ready within the prescribed period, the system requires that the next delivery date be recorded. No judgement and ruling will be delivered ‘on notice,’” Mokaya said.

In an effort to strengthen the judiciary’s relationship with court users, the heads of court stations have also been directed to enhance the efficiency of customer care centres.

Mokaya instructed that these centres should be responsive, easily accessible, and equipped with essential infrastructure, such as clear signage and communication tools.

“The centres shall be staffed by competent, well-trained personnel with strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills to effectively engage with the public,” she said.

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