Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, CBS on Friday, May 29, 2026, led a Community Dialogue on Justice Reforms in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
The forum brought together justice sector stakeholders, local leaders, the business community and wananchi in efforts aimed at strengthening public trust and access to justice.
Held under the theme “Chapa Gumzo na Prosecutor,” the forum hosted at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Eldoret Campus provided members of the public with an opportunity to directly engage the DPP on justice reforms, emerging crimes and challenges encountered within the criminal justice system.
Also present were Secretary Public Prosecutions Alloys Kemo, Senior Deputy Directors, Deputy Directors and Uasin Gishu County Head Lucas Tanui, alongside key stakeholders including the Judiciary, IJM, the National Police Service, IPOA, EACC, the Attorney General’s Office, Witness Protection Agency, KRA and the County Government of Uasin Gishu.
The DPP noted that the initiative is anchored in the ODPP Strategic Plan (2023–2027), which envisions a transformative and people-centred prosecution service.
“Our work is not only about files, charges and court appearances. It is about people, and victims seeking justice, accused persons entitled to fair treatment, families searching for answers and communities longing for safety and trust,” said Ingonga.
The also reaffirmed the constitutional mandate of the ODPP, noting that Article 157 guarantees the independence of the prosecution service while Articles 10, 48 and 50 underscore national values, access to justice and the right to a fair hearing for every Kenyan.
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He also raised concern over the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, cybercrime and online fraud targeting young people and vulnerable members of society.
“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.
Ingonga urged the public to embrace early reporting of crimes, reject corruption and remain vigilant against cybercrime, including SIM swap fraud, fake online job offers and mobile money scams and further highlighted the importance of Alternative Justice Systems, Diversion and Plea Bargaining as mechanisms aimed at promoting restorative justice, rehabilitation and efficiency within the criminal justice system.
“Justice must punish where punishment is deserved, but it must also create space for reform and restoration,” he added.
Justice Emmanuel Washe commended the DPP for maintaining adequate prosecutorial staffing in courts, noting that the collaboration between the Judiciary and the prosecution has enhanced the efficient handling of cases.
“Our courts are adequately staffed with prosecutors, enabling the smooth and efficient handling of matters and court sessions. I thank the DPP for creating time to engage with wananchi and listen to their concerns,” said Justice Washe.
LSK North Rift Branch Chairman Oscar Oduor welcomed the initiative, saying public engagement remains key in strengthening confidence in justice institutions.
“Community dialogue forums such as this are important in bridging the gap between justice institutions and the public. They promote accountability, understanding and confidence in the justice system,” said Oduor.
County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale praised the cordial working relationship between the security sector and the ODPP, saying the partnership has contributed significantly to crime reduction in the region.
Importance of Community Dialogue on Justice Reforms forum
Members of the public actively participated in the forum, sharing concerns ranging from delays in investigations and court processes to cybercrime, land disputes and GBV cases, while also proposing measures to improve access to justice and public awareness.
Caroline Kiarie of IJM noted that such forums play an important role in building trust between institutions and the public.
“We are here to listen, reflect and work together towards strengthening confidence in the justice system,” she said.
The DPP concluded by urging Kenyans to continue working closely with justice sector institutions in building safer, accountable and more resilient communities.
