Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the Maasai community to explore alternative methods of resolving the escalating land disputes in the region.
Koome emphasized the importance of mediation as an effective tool for conflict resolution, highlighting the role of religious leaders and elders in facilitating peaceful settlements, alongside the court’s mediation process.
The Chief Justice was speaking at the official opening of the Kilgoris Environment and Land Court building, the solar installation project, and the court’s newly established annexed mediation registry.
She praised the significant role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and annex courts in providing solutions to local disputes, particularly land-related conflicts.
Present at the event were Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu, area Member of Parliament Julius Sunkuli, Emurrua Dikirr MP Johanna Nge’no, Narok Deputy Governor Tamalinye Koech and various judicial officials.
In her remarks, Koome expressed concern over the prolonged nature of many land cases, some of which have been dragging on for years.
The CJ emphasized that if disputing parties could come together to resolve their differences through dialogue, it would save both time and resources.
Koome noted that many families have already exhausted their financial resources in lengthy court battles, funds that could otherwise been used to support their communities.
Koome pointed out that the mediation process, which was introduced in courts, has already proven effective in restoring relationships and fostering harmony within families and communities.
Koome reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to dispensing justice impartially, free from interference, and ensuring that people have access to fair resolution through both formal and alternative legal channels.
“Justice belongs to the people, and we will ensure they have access to it,” said the CJ
In his address, Ntutu commended the judiciary for implementing the alternative justice system and the annexed mediation courts. He noted that these initiatives would address the region’s land challenges.
Ntutu also appealed to the judiciary to establish magistrates’ courts in all sub-counties to further ease access to justice, offering to donate land for the development of these courts.
On their part, Sunkuli and his Emurrua Dikirr counterpart Nge’no rejected any rumors of tension between the legislative and judicial arms of the government.
Sunkuli pointed out that the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) has been instrumental in funding various community projects, including the construction of the buildings officially opened by the Chief Justice.
Ngeno said the judiciary should consider public participation before making their ruling, citing the recent court declaration that NG-CDF kitty will cease operations in 2026.
By John Kaleke
