The Judiciary has intensified the implementation of plea bargaining in an effort to reduce the growing backlog of court cases.
Speaking during the launch of the mediation-like programme; plea bargain in Meru, Presiding Judge at the Meru High Court, Stephen Githinji said the Meru Law Courts are currently handling more than 486 murder cases presided over by only two judges.
“Through plea bargaining, we are giving both the accused persons and victims’ families an opportunity to reach understanding while at the same time easing the burden on our courts,” said Justice Githinji.
He noted that after court officials visited prisons within the region, at least 94 suspects facing murder charges agreed to embrace the plea bargaining system, a move expected to significantly reduce the backlog of cases.
Justice Githinji further revealed that the magistrates’ courts in Meru also have 56 cases set to be handled through the same system.
According to the Judiciary, the ongoing sensitization programme aims to resolve more than 150 cases within one month.
Some inmates at Meru Prison welcomed the programme, saying it offers hope for reconciliation and faster access to justice.
Rashid Omar, who is serving a 10-year sentence, expressed confidence in the initiative.
“This programme will help many prisoners reunite with their communities because it focuses on reconciliation between the accused and victims’ families,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by Joseph Okongwa, who is serving his 15th year in prison.
“If lighter sentences are considered under the programme, more inmates will be encouraged to embrace plea bargaining,” said Okongwa.
Court users, magistrates and prison wardens have also backed the initiative, saying it will help ease congestion in both courts and prisons across the county.
Edited by John Majau
