Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga Friday urged Kenyans to embrace alternative mechanisms for resolving disputes outside the courtroom. He said restorative approaches such as Diversion and Plea Bargaining are critical in enhancing access to justice, rehabilitation and social harmony.
Speaking during a Community Dialogue on Justice Reforms held at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Eldoret Campus in Uasin Gishu County, the DPP said the criminal justice system must not only punish wrongdoing but also create opportunities for reconciliation, reform and restoration.
The forum, held under the theme “Chapa Gumzo na Prosecutor,” brought together justice sector stakeholders, local leaders, members of the business community and wananchi to discuss justice reforms, emerging crimes and challenges facing the criminal justice system.
“Our work is not only about files, charges and court appearances. It is about people — victims seeking justice, accused persons entitled to fair treatment, families searching for answers and communities longing for safety and trust,” said Ingonga.
He noted that the initiative is anchored in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Strategic Plan 2023–2027, which envisions a transformative and people-centred prosecution service founded on accountability, accessibility and public engagement.
Ingonga reaffirmed the constitutional mandate and independence of the ODPP under Article 157 of the Constitution, while also citing Articles 10, 48 and 50, which guarantee national values, access to justice and the right to a fair hearing for all Kenyans.
He raised concern over the growing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, cybercrime and online fraud targeting young people and vulnerable members of society, calling for collective action among justice sector institutions and communities.
“We cannot speak of justice without addressing the painful reality of GBV. Rights must not remain words on paper; they must be felt in police stations, hospitals, courts, homes and communities,” he stated.
The DPP further urged the public to report crimes promptly, reject corruption and remain vigilant against cyber-related offences, including SIM swap fraud, fake online job offers and mobile money scams.
He emphasized that Alternative Justice Systems, Diversion and Plea Bargaining are important tools in reducing case backlog, promoting reconciliation and ensuring more efficient delivery of justice.
“Justice must punish where punishment is deserved, but it must also create space for reform and restoration,” he added.
Also present at the forum were Secretary Public Prosecutions Alloys Kemo, Senior Deputy Directors, Deputy Directors and Uasin Gishu County Head Lucas Tanui, alongside representatives from the Judiciary, International Justice Mission (IJM), the National Police Service, IPOA, EACC, the Attorney General’s Office, Witness Protection Agency, KRA and the County Government of Uasin Gishu.
Justice Emmanuel Washe commended the ODPP for strengthening prosecutorial presence in courts, noting that close collaboration between the Judiciary and the prosecution has enhanced the efficient handling of cases.
LSK North Rift Branch Chairman Oscar Oduor welcomed the engagement, describing public dialogue forums as essential in building trust, accountability and confidence in justice institutions.
County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale also praised the strong working relationship between the security sector and the ODPP, saying the partnership has significantly contributed to crime reduction efforts in the region.
Members of the public actively participated in the discussions, raising concerns on delays in investigations and court processes, land disputes, cybercrime and GBV cases, while also proposing measures to improve access to justice and public awareness.
The DPP concluded by calling on Kenyans to continue supporting justice sector institutions in building safer, accountable and more resilient communities.
