Makueni, Kenya – Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu has called on Heads of Court Stations across the country to enhance supervision of registry operations, saying doing so is key to improving court efficiency and public trust in the justice system.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 12th Annual Heads of Station Forum held in Makueni, DCJ Mwilu emphasized that a court’s productivity is directly tied to how effectively its registry functions.
“No matter how competent and industrious a judge or judicial officer may be, if the registry is inefficient for whatever reason, that court will also be unproductive,” she stated.
She commended the forum’s focus on registry operations, describing it as a critical pillar in the administration of justice, and urged judicial leaders to ensure accuracy and accountability, especially when assessing court fees and handling decrees.
DCJ Mwilu warned that lapses at the registry level can not only prejudice litigants but also erode public confidence in the Judiciary. She directed Heads of Station to prioritize the proper maintenance of file movement registers, the immediate return of files to the registry after rulings, and the timely processing of refunds, bail, and securities.
“Holding on to these beyond reasonable timelines is unjust and reflects poorly on our service delivery,” she said.
On record management, the Deputy Chief Justice expressed concern about persistent inefficiencies, questioning how long the Judiciary must continue evaluating basic registry practices.
“Record keeping and the effective management of registers remains a challenge in our registries. These are critical tools that support efficiency, accountability, and transparency,” she said.
Justice Mwilu also decried the continued culture of unofficial “facilitation” for services meant to be free, urging judicial officers to uphold integrity and act as the true face of the Judiciary in their stations.
“The tone, discipline, efficiency, and fairness of your station begin and end with your leadership. Let us lead with accountability, urgency, and a deep sense of service to the people we serve,” she said.
Themed “Enhancing Access to Justice through Efficient and Sustainable Registry Operations,” the three-day forum brought together Heads of Station from 143 Magistrates’ Courts and 14 stand-alone Kadhis’ Courts across the country.
