Chief Justice Martha Koome has today launched the first autonomous Alternative Justice Systems Centre in Africa at Imani Mall in Nakuru County.
The Centre is a collaboration of the Nakuru Christian Leaders Platform, the Nakuru County Government and the Judiciary.
Speaking during the Launch, the CJ said that the AJS Centre was the first of its kind in the entire region and an innovation that will be immensely useful to the communities in Nakuru County.
“By establishing this Centre, you are living the biblical calling to stand firm and true as apostles of justice. You are calling attention on the people to become champions of justice by exercising their dispute resolution agency, thereby enhancing peace and cohesion among our people and within our communities”. Said the CJ
CJ Koome noted that the establishment of the centre was a testament to the success of the Social Transformation through Access to Justice blueprint.
This, she noted, is a recognition that mediation and reconciliation processes, including those conducted within the alternative justice mechanisms, are central for the resolution of disputes given that they are collaborative processes that foster long-term relationships.
“This AJS Centre will contribute to the creation of a just social order, prioritise reconciliation and foster peaceful co-existence in our communities”. Said Justice Koome
Speaking during the same event, Visiting Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, Justice Richard Buteera, lauded Kenya for promoting AJS and making key milestones towards its implementation.
He observed that both the Constitutions of Kenya and Uganda highlight the need for justice to take into account the views, values and feelings of the people.
“This House of Reconciliation is an expression of those articles of Constitution. When I go back, I will talk to the church leaders in Uganda to emulate you”. Said Justice Buteera
The Deputy Governor of Nakuru, David Kones, said that the County Government of Nakuru is committed to working with the Judiciary in setting aside land in every Sub-County for construction of courts in a bid to bring justice closer to the people.
“We have already donated land in Solai and Olenguruone for court construction and we will do so in each and every Sub-County” Said the Deputy Governor
Apostle John Kimani, one of the church leaders behind the project, noted that sometimes court cases leave people with animosity, bitterness and feelings of revenge.
“It is for this reason that the church has embraced the Centre as a ministry of reconciliation and peace building and services will be offered free of charge.” Said Apostle Kimani.
