Judiciary reasons out delay in cases

The average waiting time for a criminal case to be disposed of in the National Court, after committal from the district courts, is between 18-24 months.

That is the period of time an accused person who pleads not guilty can wait for in the national courts.

Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia said this is due to the limitation in the number of judges in the judiciary.

He said there is a need to separate the courts so that there can be judges who will be dedicated to dispose cases in the respective courts.

The restructure of the courts is pending the passing of the court of appeals bill that is currently before parliament.

“The courts are continuously addressing those impediments to try and remove them (criminal cases) and fast track those cases. One of those impediments as I’ve already said is the limitation in the number of judges,” Sir Salamo reiterated.

“After the restructure we would like to see the number of judges increased to between 60 and 80. As long as these impediments exist, we will continue to experience delays in disposition of cases. 

“Yes there has been a delay in the disposition of criminal cases, the average waiting time for a criminal case to be disposed of after committal is around 18-24 months.

“Some of the impediments that exist in terms of the disposition of the criminal cases are being addressed in the annual reports over the years,” the Chief Justice added.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton