Commission on Administrative Justice Chairperson Florence Kajuju has called on stakeholders in peace and security promotion to explore innovative avenues of collaboration with different and diverse stakeholders in order to bring lasting peace to the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
Speaking in Malindi during the inaugural ASALs conference, Kajuju promised that the Commission will continue to undertake mediation on matters of public administration which would otherwise threaten the peace, including the disputes between various State Organs, and also between citizens and State Organs.
She called for civic education among communities living in ASALs as a way of preventing conflicts and ensuring sustainable co-existence.
“While redress of administrative injustices and human rights violations is important in consolidation of peace and social harmony, having an informed public is key to the prevention of conflicts and sustainable co-existence. It is important that citizens in the ASALs are informed of redress mechanisms available through the Ombudsman in order to forestall escalation of pent-up frustrations with public service delivery into violent conflict. ” she said.
She urged the communities living in ASALs to explore various avenues including traditional justice and leadership to seek lasting solutions to perennial skirmishes.
“While the Ombudsman has a direct role in conflict management and promotion of good governance, it cannot single-handedly succeed. The input of local and other stakeholders is critical, thus the need for networking and collaboration.” Kajuju added.
