Kenya’s justice sector has introduced a series of reforms aimed at enhancing preparedness for the 2027 General Election, addressing sexual and gender-based violence, reducing case backlogs, improving road safety, and fostering stronger coordination among justice institutions.

Key Resolutions from 38th NCAJ Council Meeting

The National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), chaired by Chief Justice Martha Koome, convened on July 29, 2026, to adopt measures enhancing justice delivery and access. The Council emphasized a people-centered approach and reaffirmed its commitment to a coordinated and responsive justice system.

  • Launch of five reform initiatives including people-centered justice guidelines, a background study on this approach, the Justice Sector ICT Policy and Action Plan, protocols for handling sexual and gender-based violence cases at grassroots level, and strategies to manage heavy workloads and case backlogs.
  • Reactivation of the Ad Hoc Committee on Election Preparedness, led by the IEBC Chairperson, to coordinate justice sector readiness and support a peaceful, credible electoral process.
  • Approval of the draft Sexual Offences Bill 2026, targeting emerging sexual violence issues such as technology-facilitated offences, strengthening laws on femicide, and improving survivor care. The bill will be forwarded to the National Assembly after final updates.
  • Endorsement of a revised Identification Parade Form for the National Police Service, aligned with constitutional and international human rights standards.
  • Commitment to combat wildlife crimes including poaching, illegal bushmeat trade, and trafficking of trophies.
  • Focus on road safety reforms urging the National Transport and Safety Authority and partners to reduce fatalities, ease court congestion, and deliver timely justice.
  • Establishment of committees led by the Judiciary and State Department for Correctional Services to explore specialised Recovery Treatment Courts and Open Prisons aimed at rehabilitation and reducing repeat offenses.
  • Consideration of National Guidelines on Interviewing Children in the Justice System to ensure child-sensitive practices and safeguard children’s rights.

The Council concluded by reaffirming its dedication to strengthening collaboration across justice institutions and advancing reforms that promote accessible, inclusive, and accountable justice for all Kenyans.