Today, H.E. Governor H.E. Ibrahim Hassan warmly welcomed Hon. Justice Martha Koome, Chief Justice of Kenya, to his office.
The visit preceded the official launch of the Isiolo Alternative Justice System (AJS) County Action Plan, alongside the unveiling of the Isiolo High Court, Annexed Mediation Programme, and the AJS model and suites.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Hassan emphasized his administration’s commitment to working closely with the judiciary in establishing new magistrate courts in the Merti and Garbatulla regions. “My administration recognizes the importance of judicial services to our people.
For a while, our residents have had to travel to Meru and Nyeri to seek justice. With the launch of the Isiolo High Court, justice will not only be closer to the residents but will also hasten the resolution of cases,” Governor Hassan remarked.
He further assured that allocating land for the necessary judicial infrastructure in Merti and Garbatulla will be a priority.
“Magistrates’ courts in these areas will significantly reduce the backlog and delays in cases for Isiolo residents. We also plan to collaborate with elders in the Isiolo Alternative Justice System to enhance alternative dispute resolution, which is often more cost-effective than going to court.”
In response, Hon. Justice Koome commended the governor’s support, stating, “Once the county government establishes the basic required infrastructure for magistrate courts in Merti and Garbatulla, the judiciary will promptly send magistrates and staff to these areas.”
She reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment, adding, “No Kenyan should be traveling more than 100 kilometers in search of justice.”
