The High Court of Kenya in Eldoret has ushered in new leadership following the official handover to Presiding Judge Anthony Ndungu, who has pledged to fast-track justice delivery and tackle case backlogs.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at the Eldoret Law Courts, Justice Ndungu outlined his commitment to improving access to justice, enhancing efficiency, and strengthening public confidence in the judicial system. He takes over from Reuben Nyakundi, who has been transferred after serving in the station for over four years.
Justice Ndungu said his immediate focus will be on reducing delays in case resolution, noting that prolonged court processes continue to affect many Kenyans. He emphasized that timely justice is critical in maintaining trust in the Judiciary.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” he stated, adding that better case management and adoption of technology will play a key role in ensuring disputes are resolved without unnecessary delays.
He further pointed to the importance of embracing digital systems such as e-filing and virtual hearings to ease access to court services, especially for vulnerable groups who may struggle to attend physical sessions. According to the judge, the level of cooperation among justice sector stakeholders in Eldoret provides a strong foundation for achieving these reforms.
At the same time, Justice Ndungu pledged to promote a conducive working environment within the courts, focusing on staff welfare, professionalism, and teamwork to boost service delivery.
Outgoing Presiding Judge Justice Nyakundi highlighted achievements made during his tenure, particularly efforts to decentralize judicial services across Uasin Gishu and neighbouring regions. He noted that expanding court services closer to the people helped reduce the burden on residents who previously had to travel long distances in search of justice.
Nyakundi cited the establishment and strengthening of courts in areas such as Moiben, Turbo, and Iten, as well as the promotion of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms at the grassroots level.
However, he raised concern over persistent delays in certain cases, especially succession and criminal matters, warning that prolonged proceedings continue to disrupt families and livelihoods.
“The dead cannot cry out for justice; it is the duty of the living to do so for them,” he said.
Stakeholders, including the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, commended Nyakundi’s tenure, citing progress in improving access to justice and decongesting correctional facilities.
The transition marks a renewed push to strengthen justice delivery in Eldoret and the wider region.
