By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
30 January 2026 - Garissa Law Courts on Friday held a dialogue day that brought together members of the public and judicial officers, providing a platform for residents to present grievances and gain a deeper understanding of various judicial processes.
The dialogue day whose theme was ‘engaging citizens and strengthening justice’ was being moderated by Principal magistrate Jackson Omwange and gave chance to community members who had various issues regarding the justice systems.
Justice Omwange said the dialogue was meant for the members of the public and judicial officers to interact with the officials taking note of the concerns of the members of the public.
“It was an opportunity for us to listen to members of the public so that we improve the services we offer to them, it was an opportunity for us to hear and take recommendations from members of the public,” he said.
He noted that issues on lands, delayed judicial processes, execution of court judgements as well children’s matters were prominent matters that came from the public.
During the forum, the public were able to state their grievances and then have response from various officials including the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) representatives.
For instance, Ebla Halane complained that her husband went missing in may 2025 and she recorded a statement with the police but has never had how the investigation has progressed.
A police representative promised to make follow up ensuring justice is served to the family.
Fatuma Hussein also protested how despite court judgement in her favour over ownership dispute on a piece of land, it has been difficult to act on the court orders since her aggressor continues to live on land.
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“The orders were given in 2024 up to date. Those people are still in the same compound and refused to vacate, I have been to the county commissioner and even the police commander but I have not gotten any assistance,” she said.
The officials pledge to make a follow up on the matter.
The forum was also attended by representatives from sections of Garissa civil societies including Haki Na Sheria Initiative, Garissa Paralegal Network, Refugee Consortium of Kenya (RCK) and Kesho Alliance.
Muktar Dahir Osman, the coordinator of Garissa Paralegal support Network said the dialogue was aimed for the public to ask questions at the court and also for the public to know various services offered.
“It was an important day for all of us both the civil society, the judiciary as well as the public, we thank the judiciary to have such a day where it is open to the public to exchange notes and to better understand its processes,” he said.
The forum was also attended by representatives of the Director of public prosecution as well Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
