Nandi residents have been urged to embrace alternative justice systems for dispute resolutions, in a bid to decongest the law courts.
Eldoret Environment and Lands Court (ELC) Judge, Justice Dr. Millicent Odeny said the move will reduce caseloads in law courts and maintain cordial relationship among families and neighbours.
Justice Odeny noted that 80 per cent of cases in the region emanate from land issues, adding that Lands court will fasten solving of those cases to ensure justice is served.
Speaking during a supervisory visit at Kapsabet law courts to inspect the building identified by the County Government of Nandi to be used as ELC Court premises, Justice Odeny said there were no reasons why succession cases end up in court when they can be handled by elders and chiefs.
“Sometimes our courts handle too many cases thus unable to deliberate and solve them on time, that’s why we are advocating for alternative justice system to ensure locals get justice on time,” she said
Speaking in the same forum, Justice Stephen Kibunja said the Lands court once operational will help in recovery of public land and bring services closer to people.
Kibunja was optimistic that among the 18 ELC judges that were sworn recently, the Chief Justice Martha Koome will consider posting one to Nandi County specifically to Kapsabet town.
“This being an expansive county, it deserves an ELC. We are really praying for that to happen soon so that locals can start enjoying the services,” he said.
Kibunja said the court will open up the region for development and provide job opportunities for locals, hence improving their living standards.
County Secretary Francis Sang said the court will expedite justice to locals and help recover stolen public land.
Mr Sang added that the county government will work hand in hand with Judiciary for efficient service delivery.
Solomon Mang’ira from the Department of Land and Environment said the Lands Court will save cost and time to locals who have been seeking the services in Eldoret.
“Land cases will be solved faster since the court will concentrate on cases from the county, unlike in the past where it was combined with the ones in Eldoret,” he said
Nandi County Chairperson of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Sarah Kosgei said she was happy to be part of the change and stated that many women have had problems with succession of lands, especially when the husband is deceased.
Her sentiments were echoed by Sub-County Criminal investigations officer Mr Kennedy Makana who said locals should be educated on early succession of land, so that they may avoid having disputes in future.
By Jepkoech Jackline
