Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has urged Kenyans to embrace alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, saying restorative justice approaches such as Diversion and Plea Bargaining are key to improving access to justice, rehabilitation and social cohesion.
Ingonga said the justice system should not only focus on punishment but also on reconciliation, reform and restoration.
He was speaking during a Community Dialogue on Justice Reforms at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Eldoret Campus in Uasin Gishu County.
The forum, held under the theme “Chapa Gumzo na Prosecutor,” brought together justice sector players, local leaders, business representatives and members of the public to discuss justice reforms, emerging crimes and challenges affecting the criminal justice system.
“Our work is not only about files, charges and court appearances. It is about people, victims seeking justice, accused persons entitled to fair treatment, families searching for answers and communities longing for safety and trust,” Ingonga said.
He noted that the initiative is anchored in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Strategic Plan 2023–2027, which seeks to build a people-centred prosecution service founded on accountability, accessibility and public engagement.
Ingonga reaffirmed the constitutional independence of the ODPP under Article 157 of the Constitution, while citing Articles 10, 48 and 50 that guarantee national values, access to justice and the right to a fair hearing.
The DPP also raised concern over increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, cybercrime and online fraud targeting young people and vulnerable groups, calling for stronger collaboration between justice institutions and communities.
“We cannot speak of justice without addressing the painful reality of GBV. Rights must not remain words on paper; they must be felt in police stations, hospitals, courts, homes and communities,” he said.
He urged members of the public to report crimes promptly, reject corruption and remain vigilant against cyber-related crimes such as SIM swap fraud, fake online job offers and mobile money scams.
Ingonga further emphasised that Alternative Justice Systems, Diversion and Plea Bargaining are essential in reducing case backlog, promoting reconciliation and enhancing efficient delivery of justice.
“Justice must punish where punishment is deserved, but it must also create space for reform and restoration,” he added.
Also present at the forum were Secretary Public Prosecutions Alloys Kemo, senior ODPP officials, Uasin Gishu County Head Lucas Tanui, representatives from the Judiciary, International Justice Mission (IJM), National Police Service, IPOA, EACC, Attorney General’s Office, Witness Protection Agency, KRA and the County Government of Uasin Gishu.
Justice Emmanuel Washe commended the ODPP for strengthening prosecutorial presence in courts, saying collaboration between the Judiciary and prosecution had improved efficiency in handling cases.
LSK North Rift Branch Chairman Oscar Oduor described the public dialogue forums as important in promoting trust, accountability and confidence in justice institutions.
County Commissioner Eddyson Nyale also praised the working relationship between the security sector and the ODPP, saying it had contributed significantly to crime reduction efforts in the region.
The public raised concerns over delays in investigations and court processes, land disputes, cybercrime and GBV cases, while proposing measures to improve access to justice and public awareness.
Ingonga urged Kenyans to continue supporting justice sector institutions in building safer, accountable and resilient communities.
