Attorney General Oduor introduces Saturday shift at Sheria House to clear backlogs

Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has pledged to clear backlogs at Sheria House, among other reforms, to enhance the rule of law in Kenya.

One of her key announcements was digitising the Probate and Administration Department.

Speaking on Wednesday when she officially took over from her predecessor Justin Muturi, Oduor revealed that she has planned a series of transformative initiatives to modernise the department.

"We have already begun digitising our records. In two weeks all records will be archived digitally, making them easily accessible to all Kenyans," she said.

She announced the introduction of new working days and public engagements.

The Attorney General instructed officers at Sheria House to begin working on Saturdays to address cases and other matters that have been stalled for an extended period in the Department of Public Trustee.

"From next Saturday, we will be giving free legal aid. It will be an open day with the Department of Public Trustee," she said.

Staff at her office will work on Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm for four weeks to address backlogs.

Sheria Space

Starting next Wednesday, she will introduce a new initiative called Sheria Space, running from 4 pm to 5 pm aimed at helping Kenyans become familiar with the staff in various departments at Sheria House.

Attorney General Dorcas Oduor during the handing over ceremony, from her predecessor, Justin Muturi. (X/ Shadrack Mose)

"We will show Kenyans our heads of departments and what we do. We will listen to them and dialogue. We hope all Kenyans will join us," Oduor said.

The AG invited Muturi, the Public Service CS, to be the inaugural guest of the newly established Sheria Space.

During the Sheria Open Space, workers in the criminal and justice system will also interact with the public and enlighten them on how to protect the public interest.

President William Ruto on Tuesday told the AG that she deserved the position and that he is certain she will deliver.

Speaking on Tuesday, after she took the oath of office at State House, Nairobi, Ruto said Oduor got the job not just because she is a woman but because of her competence.

The head of state said he was confident of her ability to do the job diligently and to deliver as expected.

"Many people have said you have become the first woman in independent Kenya to become Attorney General. This appointment is not just about you being a woman, it's about you being competent. I am very confident that on account of confidence and ability to deliver, you deserve to serve in this position," Ruto said.

"I am very confident that you will not only make us as a country proud but you will also demonstrate what has always been said that what a man can do, maybe a woman can do better. Many people will be watching," he added.