CJ Koome unveils guiding framework for justice sector to ehance fight against corruption

Chief Justice Martha Koome with security and justice officials during the launch of the Strategic Guiding Framework on Anti-Corruption in the Justice Sector at Safari Park, Nairobi on March 25, 2025/ JUDICIARY

Chief Justice Martha Koome on Tuesday unveiled the Anti-Corruption Strategic Guiding Framework aimed at fostering a robust, transparent and accountable justice system that proactively addresses the multifaceted challenges posed by corruption.

Koome emphasised that the framework equips justice sector agencies with a clear roadmap of well-defined interventions, including short-term, mid-term and long-term efforts in the fight against corruption.

“By fostering inter-agency collaboration and partnerships, we can effectively combat corruption, enhance service delivery and restore hope to our nation. This is an opportunity to turn the tide,” she said.

The CJ noted that the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) had renewed its commitment to both prevention and response strategies in the battle against corruption and economic crimes.

“As duty-bearers, we acknowledge that the fight against corruption is not only a legal issue but a moral imperative,” she said.

“It is our responsibility to safeguard our national values, ensure justice prevails and promote transparent and accountable governance. We can no longer treat this issue as an insurmountable challenge; rather, we must see it as an urgent call to action.”

The Chief Justice reaffirmed Judiciary’s dedication to the anti-corruption efforts, highlighting that the Judiciary had set up Court Integrity Committees in all courts to address service delivery challenges at the grassroots level.

She said the committees will work diligently to identify and seal potential corruption loopholes.

Koome encouraged all other NCAJ agencies to establish their own integrity committees.

To ensure the effective implementation of the framework, Koome urged all government agencies to strengthen their commitment to their constitutional mandates and to offer mutual support during the implementation process.

“I cannot overstate the importance of adequate resource allocation from the National Treasury in implementing our interventions. Additionally, I call on Parliament to fully support the legal reforms outlined in the framework, as they are essential tools in our efforts to combat corruption,” she urged.

Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya called on justice sector players to lead by example, ensuring that justice is delivered without undue influence, favouritism or unethical practices.

She emphasised that the Framework would serve as a structured roadmap to effectively combat corruption and build a justice system that inspires trust and confidence among all Kenyans.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula who was in attendance during the event noted that the Anti-Corruption Strategic Guiding Framework for the Justice Sector aims to improve the sector’s efficiency and effectiveness.

National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi underscored the pervasive impact of corruption.

He noted its potential to undermine political, social and economic stability, erode respect for the law, and empower criminal syndicates and terrorists.

Mbadi pointed out the intrinsic link between corruption and money laundering, stating that offenses like bribery and theft of public funds are often committed to illicitly amass wealth.

The CS called on justice sector stakeholders to devise innovative financing methods to support their mandates.

He proposed that recovered proceeds of corruption should be reinvested into the system to bolster ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

"While we commit to providing resources, the sector must also explore alternative financing avenues," he said.

“Anti-Corruption Strategic Guiding Framework provides us with measures to fight corruption and economic crimes, enhance accountability and restore public trust in government institutions. It is not just a policy document - it is a call to action.”