Editor's Review

“These guidelines address the concerns of court users and harness technology to streamline the process." 

Chief Justice Martha Koome has ordered that cash bail and fine payments be processed in open court in a bid to increase transparency in the judiciary.

In a statement on Thursday September 28, CJ Koome said the new guidelines are in line with the Judiciary's adoption of technology using the Case Management System.

“These guidelines address the concerns of court users and harness technology to streamline the process. One notable change is that the processing of payments will now occur in open court, increasing transparency,” read the statement in part.

To ensure that fines and cash bail are processed in a timely manner, Koome directed that pleas be registered by 9:00 am, adding that court user committees will provide guidance in cases where this is not possible.

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File image of Cheif Justice Martha Koome

The Chief Justice also ordered that two court assistants be present at every plea-taking session.

“The first assistant will support the magistrate with various court duties, while the second assistant will handle the processing of fine and cash bail payments. This includes generating invoices, providing copies to the accused facilitating payments through the online portal,” she stated.

However accused individuals who cannot make payments in open court will receive an invoice and be given a reasonable period to settle their fines or cash bails.

CJ Koome further observed that committal warrants will be prepared for those who fail to pay by 4:00 pm on the day of their plea.