A senior Supreme Court judge has called for a focus on inclusive access as Kenya's court system digitizes. Justice Smokin Wanjala warned that new technologies could create fresh barriers if not implemented carefully. He stressed that digital transformation must not exclude people with disabilities, those lacking tech skills, or the economically vulnerable.
The judge's remarks were delivered at a training session for Employment and Labour Relations Court judges. He acknowledged that tools like e-filing and virtual hearings are now central to judicial work. However, he emphasized that these systems must be designed with all users in mind, especially given this particular court's focus on workers and marginalized groups.
Justice Wanjala framed the issue as a matter of constitutional promise, where technology should enhance fair and efficient justice for everyone. He urged judges to use their influence to ensure human dignity and equality remain central to innovation. The presiding judge of the labour court echoed this, describing their mandate as fundamentally rooted in social justice.
The judge's remarks were delivered at a training session for Employment and Labour Relations Court judges. He acknowledged that tools like e-filing and virtual hearings are now central to judicial work. However, he emphasized that these systems must be designed with all users in mind, especially given this particular court's focus on workers and marginalized groups.
Justice Wanjala framed the issue as a matter of constitutional promise, where technology should enhance fair and efficient justice for everyone. He urged judges to use their influence to ensure human dignity and equality remain central to innovation. The presiding judge of the labour court echoed this, describing their mandate as fundamentally rooted in social justice.
