ODPP unveils ambitious strategic plan with seven key focus areas to tackle cases

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has launched its 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, unveiling seven critical focus areas designed to enhance its operations.

Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga noted that the new plan is people-centred and grounded in the principles of human rights. Ingonga reaffirmed the ODPP's commitment to delivering justice while ensuring that its processes remain inclusive and transparent.

"We are committed to ensuring that every strategy is achieved. The ODPP Strategic Plan will focus on people as key stakeholders and ensure the observance of human rights in prosecutions," he stated.

Ingonga added that the plan incorporates international and regional development priorities, such as the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the East African Community Vision 2050.

This is the fourth strategic plan developed by the ODPP since the promulgation of Kenya's 2010 Constitution.

It is also a significant step forward from the ODPP Excellence Charter (2020–2023), marking a transition towards a more holistic and results-driven framework.

The plan highlights a commitment to improving prosecution performance and ensuring accountability.

Ingonga explained that his office intends to innovate within its prosecution service, enhance performance management mechanisms, and provide an accountable framework for delivering justice.

He stressed the importance of securing adequate funding and resources to support the ODPP's mandate while focusing on infrastructural development, including the acquisition of critical equipment and the improvement of work environments.

In his remarks, Ingonga also highlighted the need to develop the human resource capacity of the ODPP. He noted that a skilled, professional, and motivated workforce is essential for improving service delivery.

The office will enhance the terms and conditions of service for its staff to ensure better outcomes.

Additionally, the ODPP plans to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, focusing on structured coordination and cooperation with key stakeholders in the criminal justice system.

Another priority area outlined in the Strategic Plan is the implementation and review of policies and guidelines.

Ingonga stated that the ODPP will work to improve the implementation of existing policies while developing new ones to ensure effective service delivery. Institutional capacity will also be strengthened to create a responsive and efficient organisation.

The DPP reiterated his commitment to tackling corruption and economic crimes. He highlighted several successful prosecutions under his leadership, including cases involving former public officials like James Humphrey Oswago, Wilson Kiprotich Shollei, and ex-Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal.

"The ODPP will vigorously prosecute corruption and economic crimes cases," he declared, signalling a firm resolve to address graft.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who officiated the launch, affirmed the Executive's commitment to safeguarding the independence of the ODPP and other independent institutions.

Speaking at the Prosecution Training Institute in Loresho, Nairobi, Kindiki reassured the public that the government would not interfere with the functions of the ODPP.

"President Ruto has been steadfast in his emphasis that he will not interfere with the functions of independent offices but encourages a whole-of-government approach with the criminal justice system," he said.

Kindiki explained that while independent institutions like the ODPP are autonomous in decision-making, administration, budgeting, and operations, collaboration with other government arms is crucial to achieving their mandates.

He added that the government would provide financial and infrastructural support to enhance the ODPP's efficiency.