CJ Koome, Treasury PS Kiptoo discuss Judiciary's budget needs
Chief Justice Koome's meeting with PS Kiptoo marks progress in plans to streamline national government services and tame corruption, following criticism from parties including President William Ruto.
Chief Justice Martha Koome met with Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo on Wednesday to discuss the Judiciary's budgetary requirements in line with a pledge to enhance the administration of justice.
As the president of the Supreme Court and chair of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Koome reported productive discussions on several key matters. These included:
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- Optimizing the Judiciary Fund: This discussion focused on ensuring the fund's efficient operation as envisioned by Article 173 of the Constitution.
- Pro bono scheme: The meeting explored ways to further develop and use the pro bono scheme, potentially increasing access to legal services for those who cannot afford them.
- Expanding Small Claims Courts: Discussions centred on operationalising additional Small Claims Courts for accessible and efficient resolution of minor disputes.
- Human resource needs: Addressing staffing shortages and ensuring the Judiciary has the necessary manpower to fulfil its duties was a key topic.
- Judiciary digitization project: The progress on the ongoing digitisation project, essential for improving efficiency and transparency, was reviewed.
- Infrastructure updates: The state of Judiciary infrastructure in Nairobi and across the country was assessed, with a focus on necessary improvements.
"We reached an agreement on areas for immediate consideration in the next supplementary budget and critical areas for the FY 2024/25 budget," Koome stated.
This meeting marks a positive step towards streamlining national government services and addressing concerns about corruption, echoing President William Ruto's recent calls for collaboration between the Executive and the Judiciary.
Following tensions stemming from criticisms of the Judiciary, President Ruto and Chief Justice Koome met on Monday alongside representatives from the Legislature, including Attorney-General Justin Muturi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula.
According to a statement by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, their discussions covered enhancing service delivery, tackling corruption, and promoting overall justice administration for public accountability.
Both the Executive and the Legislature expressed support for the Judiciary's request for a larger budget, aiming to improve service delivery and strengthen the fight against corruption.
President Ruto further pledged additional funding for hiring 36 new judges, demonstrating a renewed commitment to combating corruption. This will involve recruiting 11 more Court of Appeal judges and 25 High Court judges, and will also support finalizing the Judiciary's vehicle leasing program.
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