Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has called on Kenyan citizens to adopt alternative dispute resolution methods, highlighting that restorative justice techniques like Diversion and Plea Bargaining are vital for enhancing justice access, rehabilitation efforts and social unity.
Ingonga emphasized that the justice system should prioritize reconciliation, reform and restoration rather than solely focusing on punishment.
He made these remarks during a Community Dialogue on Justice Reforms at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Eldoret Campus in Uasin Gishu County.
The gathering, themed “Chapa Gumzo na Prosecutor,” assembled justice stakeholders, community leaders, business entities and ordinary citizens to deliberate on justice reforms, emerging criminal activities and obstacles facing the criminal justice system.
“Our responsibility extends beyond paperwork, charges and courtroom proceedings. It encompasses supporting victims seeking justice, ensuring fair treatment for accused individuals, assisting families searching for answers, and fostering communities that desire safety and trust,” Ingonga stated.
He pointed out that this initiative is based on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Strategic Plan 2023–2027, which aims to establish a people-focused prosecution service built on accountability, accessibility and community involvement.
Ingonga reaffirmed the ODPP’s constitutional independence as outlined in Article 157 of the Constitution, while referencing Articles 10, 48 and 50 that protect national values, guarantee access to justice and ensure the right to a fair hearing.
The DPP also expressed concern about the rising incidents of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, cybercrime and online fraud targeting youth and vulnerable populations, advocating for enhanced cooperation between justice agencies and communities.
“We cannot discuss justice without confronting the harsh reality of GBV. Legal rights should not remain theoretical concepts; they must be experienced in police stations, healthcare facilities, courts, homes and neighborhoods,” he stated.
He encouraged citizens to report criminal activities promptly, reject corruption and remain watchful against cyber-related offenses such as SIM swap fraud, deceptive online job opportunities and mobile money scams.
Ingonga further stressed that Alternative Justice Systems, Diversion and Plea Bargaining are crucial in decreasing case backlogs, promoting reconciliation and facilitating more efficient justice delivery.
“Justice must impose consequences when warranted, but it must also provide opportunities for reform and restoration,” he added.
Additional attendees at the forum included Secretary Public Prosecutions Alloys Kemo, senior ODPP personnel, Uasin Gishu County Head Lucas Tanui, representatives from the Judiciary, International Justice Mission (IJM), National Police Service, IPOA, EACC, Attorney General’s Office, Witness Protection Agency, KRA and the County Government of Uasin Gishu.
Justice Emmanuel Washe praised the ODPP for increasing prosecutorial representation in courts, noting that cooperation between the Judiciary and prosecution has enhanced case management efficiency.
LSK North Rift Branch Chairman Oscar Oduor characterized the public dialogue forums as valuable in building trust, accountability and confidence in justice institutions.
County Commissioner Eddyson Nyale also acknowledged the effective partnership between the security sector and the ODPP, indicating it has substantially contributed to crime reduction initiatives in the area.
Community members voiced concerns regarding delays in investigations and court proceedings, land conflicts, cybercrime and GBV instances, while suggesting strategies to improve justice accessibility and public awareness.
Ingonga called on Kenyans to continue supporting justice sector institutions in creating safer, accountable and resilient communities.