A gubernatorial aspirant from Nyamira has lauded parliament for initiating a legal representation Bill that will see people from underprivileged backgrounds receive legal aide through the government paid lawyers in court.
The Bill, which is being fronted by Nyeri women representative Priscah Nyokabi, was tabled in parliament and is set for debate.
Speaking in Moturumesi area during a meet-the people tour, Mr Charles Mochama welcomed the Bill and urged members of parliament to support it regardless of the party affiliations.
“The Bill (legal representation) is long overdue and I thank the legal committee for facilitating it. We have so many people who are unable to raise legal fee and this makes it impossible for equal administration of justice in court. All Kenyans deserve equal treatment before the law,” he said.
Mochama, however, urged parliament to consider establishing offices in every county so that the legal officers are brought near to locals for easy access of justice.
“I have been tipped that the offices for those who will work as government legal officers will be working from Nairobi under the supervision of the attorney general and that is the undoing. We need offices set in all 47 counties so that our people reach the legal officers easily whenever there is need,” he added.
He expressed his optimism that the president will sign it into law and called for its expeditious implementation before the year ends.
“We have seen a number of people get arrested and fail to represent them in court simply because it’s difficult to hire a lawyer. I am confident that the president will sign it into law and those responsible must ensure it’s implemented expeditiously,” he said.