The National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) has today concluded its 38th
Council Meeting and adopted the following resolutions aimed at strengthening the
administration of justice and enhancing inter-agency co-ordination. The resolutions reaffirm
the Council’s commitment to a coordinated, responsive and people-centered justice sector
that meets the needs of all justice seekers.
Prior to deliberating on its agenda, Council members committed to improving justice delivery
by launching five progressive reform initiatives. Among these are people-centred justice
guidelines, the background study on people-centred justice, the Justice sector ICT Policy and
Action Plan, Procedures for handling SGBV cases at the grassroots, and procedures for
enhancing a common approach to clearing heavy workloads and case backlogs.
We assure Kenyans that there is no crisis in the justice sector and remain committed to justice
delivery. Our operations are well-structured, and we collaborate closely across institutions.
The NCAJ is represented at the grassroots through court user committees, which help enhance
the administration of justice. These committees address local issues directly and escalate
more complex matters to the NCAJ. As stakeholders, we remain committed to strengthening
the administration of and access to justice for all Kenyans at every level.
Following its deliberations, the Council resolved as follows:
Enhancing Collaboration and Partnership in the Administration of Justice
The Council reaffirmed the need to enhance coordination through sustained dialogue and
adherence to constitutional principles, and especially the need to always enhance access to
justice. This should be in recognition of and appreciation for the fact that effective
collaboration among justice-sector institutions is indispensable to fair, efficient and
accessible justice delivery. The Council members are therefore committed to sustained
dialogue and joint efforts, and working toward a unified approach that will foster a shared
commitment in the best interests of justice seekers and the people of Kenya.
To support collaboration, the Council also underscored the need for all justice-sector
institutions to advance digital transformation while ensuring that no institution is left behind.
Enhancing Justice sector support and preparedness for the 2027 General Elections
Inter-agency coordination and partnership are essential for a peaceful and orderly
electoral environment. Following a briefing by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries
Commission (IEBC), the NCAJ reactivated its Ad Hoc Committee on Election Preparedness,
led by the IEBC Chairperson. The Committee will coordinate justice-sector preparedness and
strengthen collaboration among relevant institutions to support constitutional, peaceful and
credible electoral processes.
Strengthening Justice System Interventions Against Wildlife Crimes
Wildlife crime, including poaching, illegal bushmeat trade, and trafficking of wildlife
trophies, undermines Kenya’s conservation efforts, national security and public health.
Following a presentation by the Kenya Wildlife Service, the NCAJ resolved to strengthen
partnerships to address these challenges. The Council also called on all institutions to enhance
their interventions to prevent, investigate and respond effectively to wildlife crimes.
Legislative Reforms to Address Sexual Offences and Gender Based Violence
The NCAJ formally approved the draft Sexual Offences Bill 2026. The draft Bill, upon
updates, will be submitted to the National Assembly. This Bill demonstrates our commitment
to responding to evolving forms of sexual and gender-based violence, including technology
facilitated offences, while strengthening the legal framework relating to femicide and other
emerging challenges. It will also improve response and care for survivors of gender-based
violence.
Enhancing Road Safety and the Rule of Law
The Council has prioritized road safety over the past year, recognizing it as a national
priority essential for saving lives, reducing court congestion, and ensuring timely justice for
road users. The Council acknowledged progress to date and urged NTSA and other
agencies to continue reforms within the rule of law to further reduce road fatalities.
Reforming the Identification Parade Process
The Council recognized the identification parade as a critical evidentiary process in criminal
investigations, ensuring witnesses can identify suspects fairly and transparently. The Council
approved a revised Identification Parade Form for use by the National Police Service. This
form aligns with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, international human rights standards, and
best practices in criminal justice administration.
Exploring the Establishment of Specialized Recovery Treatment Courts and Open
Prisons
The NCAJ established committees, led by the Judiciary and the State Department for
Correctional Services, to explore the establishment of Specialized Recovery Treatment
Courts and Open Prisons. The Committees will assess the feasibility of establishing Recovery
Treatment Courts and Open Prisons as innovative approaches to rehabilitation, reduced
recidivism, and successful reintegration of offenders into society.
National Guidelines on Interviewing Children
The NCAJ considered the National Guidelines on Interviewing Children in the Justice System
to protect children, uphold their rights, and ensure access to justice. These guidelines provide
a framework for child-sensitive interviewing practices, promoting a more equitable and
effective child justice system that serves children’s best interests.
In conclusion, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration across
justice-sector institutions and to advancing reforms that promote timely, accessible, inclusive,
people-centred and accountable justice for all Kenyans.
Hon. Justice Martha K. Koome, EGH
Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya &
Chairperson, National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ)