Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale appealed to Chief Justice Martha Koome over the backlog of Court Martial cases in a bid to reform the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Duale urged the CJ to include Court Martial cases in the judicial calendar to ensure they are heard and dispensed on time.
The CS spoke during a meeting with the CJ on Wednesday, March 1, where the two agreed on working together to protect Kenya.
“Some magistrates have busy diaries owing to the backlog in civil courts but we seek to have the cases for our court martials incorporated in the judicial calendar so they may be heard and determined on time,” Duale stated.
Furthermore, Duale called upon Koome to push for expeditious hearing of cases to facilitate speedy delivery of justice that will see officers sitting on the bench attending to other duties.
In addition, Duale emphasised the need for joint training of the legal officers from KDF to enhance capacity building and exchange programs.
On the other hand, he lauded the CJ for appointing Judge advocates for Courts-Martial that has made it possible to prosecute soldiers found to have violated rules and regulations.
Meanwhile, Koome was impressed by Duale's leadership in the ministry that has ensured Kenyan borders are protected.
"The military is a trusted partner as a key component of national security and we are grateful for the seriousness with which you have responded to emergencies and disasters," she stated.
Koome recognised the military for their precision in undertaking their duties adding they are importing the same dedication and commitment to undertake various projects aimed at bringing justice closer to Kenyans.
"The judiciary shall continue to work closely with the military to expeditiously discharge justice for soldiers arraigned in court-martials," she assured.
Court Martial hears cases involving people serving in the military. They are established under the Armed Forces Act.
