AG Dorcas Oduor seeks to cut graft trial timelines to six months
According to the AG, the combined legal proposals will ensure faster justice, greater citizen involvement, and better safeguards for those who expose wrongdoing.
Corruption suspects may soon face faster trials and shorter appeals, following the introduction of a new bill that sets strict timelines for handling graft cases.
Attorney General Dorcas Oduor unveiled the Anti-Corruption Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, on Thursday, which proposes limiting the duration of trials to six months and capping the full appeal process at one year.
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“If the amendment goes through, then all corruption cases will have to be concluded within six months,” Oduor said.
The bill spells out clear deadlines across all stages of the legal process.
Trial courts would be required to complete hearings within six months of commencement, while appeals at the High Court and Court of Appeal must be concluded in three and six months, respectively.
It also sets timeframes for cases involving proceeds of corruption.
“Notwithstanding anything contained in any other written law, a forfeiture application under this Act shall, as far as practicable, be heard and determined within six months from the date of the filing of the application,” the bill reads.
In a move to curb unnecessary delays, the legislation limits adjournments during trial. “Notwithstanding anything contained in the Criminal Procedure Code, as far as practicable, the trial of an offence under this Act shall be completed within six months from commencement of the trial,” it adds.
“The court shall not grant an application for the adjournment of proceedings, except in compelling and exceptional circumstances.”
Oduor said the new timelines are aimed at closing loopholes in the justice system that allow corruption cases to drag on for years. She stressed that the efficient resolution of graft cases is key to building trust in public institutions and creating a stronger foundation for economic growth.
She also introduced two related bills, the Public Participation Bill, 2025, and the Whistle-Blower Protection Bill, 2025, both designed to enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
According to the AG, the combined legal proposals will ensure faster justice, greater citizen involvement, and better safeguards for those who expose wrongdoing.
“Tackling corruption swiftly is necessary for stabilising Kenya’s economy and improving governance,” she said.
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