Supreme Court Judge Smokin Wanjala has called on Kenyans to embrace the traditional justice system for resolving disputes, highlighting its efficiency and accessibility. Speaking during the launch of the Trans-Nzoia Alternative Justice System, Justice Wanjala pointed out that many cases have remained unresolved in the formal court system for years, often due to high costs and procedural delays.
“The constitution suggests that we solve our disputes in different ways, not just the courts,” Justice Wanjala emphasized. He noted that the formal justice system is expensive and inaccessible to many Kenyans, which leaves a significant number of disputes unresolved.
The launch of the Trans-Nzoia Alternative Justice System is part of a broader effort to reduce the workload in courts and ensure that justice is accessible to all. Traditional justice systems, which include mediation, arbitration, and community-based resolutions, offer a more affordable and expedient way to settle disputes.
Justice Wanjala praised the traditional justice systems for their cultural relevance and community-based approaches, which are often more in tune with the values and needs of the people. “The move to launch an alternative justice system comes in a bid to try and reduce the workload in courts and to ensure that everyone gets the access to the justice they deserve,” he said.
The initiative is expected to significantly alleviate the burden on the formal court system, which has been struggling with a backlog of cases. By incorporating traditional methods, the judiciary aims to provide a more holistic approach to justice that resonates with local communities.
The Trans-Nzoia Alternative Justice System will work alongside the formal judicial system to provide a complementary pathway for dispute resolution. This dual approach is expected to enhance the overall efficiency of the justice system and provide a more inclusive means for citizens to seek redress.
