In a major step towards inclusive justice, KELIN, in collaboration with the the National Steering Committee on Implementation of Alternative Justice Systems Policy (NaSCI-AJS), hosted a high-level meeting on October 18, 2024, with key Siaya judiciary, legal practitioners, and Court Users Committee (CUC), to validate the Siaya County Action Plan (CAP) for Alternative Justice Systems (AJS). Stakeholders included,
This plan is a game changer in the justice landscape, aligning with the Chief Justice’s vision of a multi-door approach to dispute resolution—making justice more efficient, cost-effective, and accessible. It aims to bridge formal and informal justice systems, ensuring marginalized groups such as women, widows, and orphans, especially in land and succession matters, have a voice.
“This is about justice for all, not just the privileged,” said Hortense Minishi, KELIN’s Deputy Executive Director. “We’re ensuring that everyone—particularly those often left behind—has a chance to resolve disputes fairly, while promoting social harmony.”
The newly appointed Principal Judge of Siaya and Chair of the Court Users Committee, Hon. Justice David Kemei, echoed this commitment. He pledged to establish an AJS Secretariat in Siaya to bolster dispute resolution and promote accessible justice through AJS.
“AJS is critical for realizing constitutional values that guarantee justice for all and cultural practices must align with the Constitution and uphold individuals’ rights.” – Dr. Steve Akoth, Vice Chair of NaSCI-AJS, highlighted that
The forum saw lively discussions about the practical implementation of AJS, with a shared commitment to making justice more accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Kenyans across Siaya and beyond.
With the Siaya CAP validated, Kenya is one step closer to revitalizing and formalizing alternative justice mechanisms, ensuring that justice is not only a right but a reality for all.
KELIN continues to lead the charge in integrating health and justice rights, ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for a fair and just system.
To contribute to the discussion, follow KELIN on our social media platforms.
Twitter: @KELINKenya http://www.facebook.com/kelinkenya
Website: www.kelinkenya.org
For more information, please contact.
Trevor Mwangi |Program Associate,
Women Land & Property Rights
P O Box 112 – 00202 KNH Nairobi,
Tel: 020, 2515790 │Mobile: +254710261408
Email: Trevormwangi@kelinkenya.org
