Chief Justice Martha Koome on Thursday issued new guidelines that will guide the processing of cash bails and payment of court fines.
In a statement, the CJ directed that cash bail be processed in open court, accompanied by specific timelines for plea registration and bail payment.
According to CJ Koome's statement, the Judiciary is now moving towards using technology to streamline processes and ensure transparency.
"To ensure the timely processing of fines and bail, the guidelines require that pleas must be registered by 9:00 am. In cases where this is not feasible, Court Users' Committees will provide guidance," the Chief Justice directed in a statement.
"This system not only generates online invoices and receipts but also simplifies the entire payment process," read the statement in part.
Additionally, she directed that there should be two court assistants with one mandated to help in the processing of the cash bails.
The assistant tasked with processing the cash bails will be tasked with generating invoices, providing copies to the accused persons, and facilitating payments
"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 bail.
Those who fail to pay for the cash bails and fines by 4:00 pm on their plea date will have committal warrants issued against them.
In enforcing transparency and efficiency, the CJ revealed plans to ensure that each court has an accountant responsible for daily revenue collection.
The Judiciary’s Directorate of ICT will be automating the processes within the next 30 days.
