By Yoga David.
Photos by Calvin Randy
The Judiciary has today moved justice closer to the people in Kisumu County.
In a glittering ceremony, Kisumu Governor Prof.Peter Anyang Nyong’o and Chief Justice Martha Koome have today officially opened the Kombewa Law Courts in Seme, Kisumu County.The new judicial facility is expected to significantly enhance access to justice for the local community.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Nyong’o lauded the event as a victory for partnership and good governance.
“This court stands as a beacon of what we can achieve through effective collaboration and prudent use of public resources,” he said.
The governor commended Seme Member of Parliament Dr. James Nyikal for championing the project through the Seme’s National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), saying the facility would remain a lasting part of his legacy.
With the court now operational, residents of Seme sub-county will no longer need to travel long distances to access legal services.
Governor Nyong’o noted that the new court will ease case backlogs in other courts, improve judicial efficiency and more importantly, ensure that justice is accessible and fair to all citizens.
“Justice delayed is justice denied, but a court established is justice heralded,” Governor Nyong’o said.
While praising the Judiciary for its efforts, the Governor also emphasized that judicial independence must be matched by adequate support and resources.
He called on the national government to stop frequent budget cuts to the Judiciary, arguing that underfunding weakens the justice system and delays critical infrastructure and staffing improvements.
“An underfunded Judiciary cannot undertake infrastructure projects and employ more judicial officers.” He said.
Governor Nyong’o pledged his administration’s continued support, including improving infrastructure, enhancing security and promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to complement formal court processes.
He thanked the Chief Justice Martha Koome for her presence and her dedication to a people centred justice system.
“As you officially commission this court, know that you do so with our profound gratitude and our pledge of continued support.” Governor Nyong’o said.
He added, “May this Kombewa Law Court stand tall for generations to come, dispensing justice fairly, upholding the rule of law, and contributing to a peaceful and prosperous Seme Sub-County and Kisumu County at large.”
Present during the opening were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Matthew Owili, Supreme Court Judge William Ouko, alongside Judicial Service Commission (JSC) members. Members of the National Assembly in attendance included Dr. James Nyikal and Aduma Owuor, Kisumu County Assembly Deputy Speaker Nereah Okombo, and Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo. CECMs John Awiti (Education) and Jerome Ochieng (Infrastructure), Chief of Staff Aloice Ager, County Attorney Otieno Aluoka, and other representatives from the Judiciary and county government of Kisumu were also present.
