Chief Justice Martha Koome has underscored the critical role of effective court station management in strengthening judicial excellence, improving service delivery, and enhancing public trust in the Judiciary.
Speaking during the opening of the 2026 Annual Heads of Station Forum in Meru, the Chief Justice emphasised that court stations remain the primary gateway to justice for most Kenyans, particularly through Magistrates’ Courts and Small Claims Courts, which collectively handle the majority of cases filed within the Judiciary.
She revealed that approximately 85 per cent of all cases in Kenya are resolved at the subordinate court level, highlighting the significance of efficient and responsive station management in promoting access to justice as envisioned under Article 48 of the Constitution and the Judiciary’s Social Transformation Through Access to Justice (STAJ) blueprint.
She observed that the effectiveness of the Judiciary is directly linked to the efficiency of court management systems, noting that well-managed stations promote confidence, accountability, and timely delivery of justice, while weak management undermines public trust and contributes to delays.
To strengthen institutional capacity, the Chief Justice cited the recent swearing-in of 98 Resident Magistrates and Adjudicators following their recruitment by the Judicial Service Commission.
She described the recruitment as a significant step toward addressing workload demands and reducing case backlog across court stations.
However, she cautioned that increased staffing alone would not guarantee excellence unless accompanied by strong management practices, effective supervision, and accountability.
The Chief Justice further called on Heads of Station to prioritise performance measurement and court health monitoring.
She stressed the importance of tracking pending cases, clearance rates, adjournment trends, and barriers to case progression, stating that data-driven management is essential for improving efficiency and responding proactively to emerging challenges.
Addressing the persistent challenge of case backlog, she urged court leaders to implement practical interventions, including regular case audits, backlog reduction initiatives, strict adherence to timelines, and prioritisation of older matters.
She emphasised that backlog management is not solely a judicial issue but also a leadership and administrative responsibility requiring discipline, innovation, and continuous monitoring.
On case management, the Chief Justice directed courts to take proactive control of litigation timelines and minimise unnecessary adjournments, which she identified as a major contributor to delays and backlog.
She also encouraged greater utilisation of technology and information systems to improve case tracking, identify bottlenecks, and support evidence-based decision-making.
The Chief Justice reiterated that integrity remains the foundation of public confidence in the Judiciary. She called on Heads of Station to provide ethical leadership and ensure that court stations operate fairly, transparently, and professionally.
Particular emphasis was placed on the management of court registries, which she described as the operational heart of court stations and the public’s first point of contact with the Judiciary.
Heads of Station were urged to strengthen oversight mechanisms, revamp registry operations, and ensure Court Integrity Committees function effectively in addressing ethical concerns and promoting accountability.
Addressing the Heads of Station from across the country under the theme “Enhancing Judicial Excellence Through Effective Court Station Management,” the Chief Justice commended judicial officers and staff for their dedication and leadership in delivering justice to Kenyans.
She noted that Heads of Station serve as the face of the Judiciary within their jurisdictions and play a pivotal role in shaping the public’s experience of the justice system.
In concluding her address, the Chief Justice challenged participants to use the forum as an opportunity to exchange ideas, develop practical solutions, and strengthen leadership at the station level.
She emphasised that the future of the Judiciary depends not only on constitutional ideals and policy frameworks, but also on the quality of leadership exercised daily within court stations.
Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia, who graced the opening ceremony, said the Judiciary remains one of the most important pillars of democracy.
“Nations across the world are not judged by their economies but by how they respect the institutions and the rule of law. The theme of this year’s forum is both timely and relevant. Effective station management lies at the very heart of service delivery and growing public confidence,” said Governor M’Ethingia
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya told the Heads of Station that to lead our courts effectively, they must actively supervise staff, set clear expectations, and cultivate a culture of discipline and accountability.
“This requires us to manage human capital and allocate resources responsibly so that we deliver the greatest value to the communities we serve. It also calls for strong stakeholder engagement, clear communication, and, above all, regular performance measurement,” said the CRJ.
Speaking at the forum, Registrar Magistrates Courts Caroline Kabucho urged the Heads of Station to maintain professionalism, integrity, and collegiality.
“Excellence today requires embracing new developments. Tools such as e-filing, the case tracking system, monthly returns, the SMS feedback platform, and JMAPS are not optional – they are essential. They make our courts faster, more transparent, and more accountable. Let us not resist change. Let us lead it,” said Kabucho.
