CJ Koome Issues Directive on Instant Traffic Fines
Monday, Chief Justice Martha Koome issued an order to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, requesting that he expedite the currently stalled Instant Traffic Fines Reforms.
In a statement, the Chief Justice urged the DPP to prioritize the reforms, noting that they are likely to expedite the criminal justice system and combat systemic corruption.
Koome also advocated for a closer working relationship between the Judiciary and the DPP, which heads the National Council for the Administration of Justice (NCTAJ), which is responsible for implementing the reforms.
“There is a need for collaboration between the Judiciary and the ODPP in addressing corruption within the criminal justice sector. It is important to appreciate that no institution can succeed alone in tackling prevalent corruption within the criminal justice system,” CJ Koome stated.
”I asked the DPP to prioritize unlocking these reforms as the Instant Traffic Fines Reforms is likely to have a transformative impact on the criminal justice system,” she added.
ALSO READ:
- Court Orders Distribution of Ksh6 Billion Modern Coast Empire in 60 Days
- Bill Gates Lands Major Deal in Kenya After Ruto Meetings
- CS Kuria to Introduce Service Fees at All Huduma Centres
The Chief Justice’s latest action comes after she pushed for the introduction of sweeping reforms on July 15, including the reintroduction of instant fines for minor traffic offenses, among other changes.
The goal of Koome’s reforms is to decongest Kenyan prisons and cells full of minor offenders.
The Chief Justice has also proposed the reinstatement of roadside courts, the imposition of instant fines, and the introduction of a defined regulatory policy for boda boda transportation.
Koome has also proposed investigating alternatives to incarceration, such as community service, plea bargaining, probation, and aftercare.
During the COVID-19 era, the CJ also implemented virtual tribunals to expedite traffic offense cases.
This occurred after the Chief Justice ordered that cash bail be processed in open court on September 28.
The chief justice of the nation stated that the directive would increase transparency within the Judiciary.
CJ Koome Issues Directive on Instant Traffic Fines
