Half of the country is not served by the Environment and Land Court due to shortage of judges, a conference heard on Monday.
Presiding Judge of the court Justice Samson Okong’o said the additional 19 judges to the court is a drop in the ocean and that the workload is big.
“The case disposal rate is low, the workload cannot be matched with personnel, clients are frustrated,” said Justice Okong’o.
Speaking during the annual judges colloquium at Sarova Whitesands hotel, Justice Okong’o said they welcome new judges posted to the court but noted that they lack the basic needs to ensure they work effectively.
“Some don’t have basics such as furniture, chambers and computers, there are several challenges faced by new judges,” said Justice Okong’o.
This comes amid increased land ownership conflicts, prompting the need for judges to handle property disputes.
Justice Okong’o who acknowledged that the new judges have eased pressure in many courts said there is need for the challenges to be addressed urgently.
Employment and Labour Relations Court Principal Judge Nduma Nderi said the court has been able to establish the link it had lost with the International Labour Organization.
“The court through the Chief Justice and the Ministry of Labour re-established the link,” said Justice Nderi.
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