By Eddah Waithaka
Principal Secretary Judith Pareno officially introduced the newly established State Department of Justice, Human Rights, and Social Affairs during a breakfast meeting with stakeholders, urging partners to support its growth.
Pareno, the first Maasai woman to hold the position, emphasized the department’s critical mandate, which includes constitutional implementation, anti-corruption efforts, human rights advocacy, and access to justice.
A “New Baby” in Government
“This department is a baby that needs nurturing,” Pareno declared. “We must keep it warm, help it grow, and ensure it thrives.”
She highlighted the department’s 19 key functions, ranging from legal aid administration to electoral policy coordination.
Strengthening Access to Justice
A major focus is expanding legal aid services nationwide. The Attorney General’s office has deployed 90 state counsels across all 47 counties, with an official launch set for August 4.
However, Pareno stressed the need for additional resources, including training, equipment, and partnerships with paralegal networks.
“Sending two state counsels to a vast county like Kajiado, the size of Rwanda is not enough. We need support to ensure justice reaches every citizen,” she said.
Anti-Corruption and Human Rights
The department will revive the Secretariat of the Multi-Agency Team Against Corruption and oversee agencies like the Assets Recovery Authority and the Witness Protection Board.
Pareno also pledged to uphold Kenya’s international human rights obligations.
Pareno urged development partners, civil society, and the media to collaborate, “We cannot walk this journey alone. Let’s work together to build a just society.”
The event concluded with stakeholders pledging support for the department’s ambitious agenda.
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