Judicial officers in Garissa plea for secured residences amid security concerns

Judicial officers stationed in Garissa County have called on the national government to allocate land and funding for the construction of secure residences for judges and court staff. The appeal was made during a memorial service held in honour of a slain magistrate, a tragic event that has brought renewed urgency to concerns over the safety of those working in the justice sector.
During the gathering — which brought together magistrates, prosecutors, court staff and other justice‑sector stakeholders — the lead speaker, a presiding judge, urged authorities to go beyond merely reinforcing courthouse security. He argued that ensuring the safety of judicial officers also requires providing safe, dedicated housing, especially for staff serving in high‑risk areas.
Meanwhile, local police command representatives said assessments are ongoing to identify security vulnerabilities both at court facilities and in current staff accommodations.
The call for secure residences comes against a backdrop of growing concern over attacks on judicial officers and destruction of court infrastructure around the country. Judicial staff and staff‑welfare associations have repeatedly warned that in the absence of proper housing and living‑condition standards, the independence and effectiveness of the justice system could be undermined.
Looking ahead, those pushing for change say they want the plea to be integrated into broader housing and welfare reforms for public servants — including those under state‑backed housing schemes — in order to ensure that judicial officers can perform their duties without fear. If the government acts on this request, it could mark a significant shift in how Kenya protects its legal officers and ensures the rule of law in remote or high‑risk regions.