Chief Justice David Maraga has defended the judiciary over allegations of frustrating justice efforts due to the delay in conclusion of cases before the courts.
Addressing the press on Friday, the Supreme Court head acknowledged the delays, noting that there are many reasons as to why cases are taking longer to be concluded.
He cited postponement of hearings by both the lawyers and judges, as well as inability by witnesses to avail themselves in court.
"Cases are taking long to be heard and determined due to many challenges; the inability of witnesses to appear in court and postponement of hearings by lawyers and judges," he said.
He spoke when he visited the Kericho Law Courts.
Maraga added that he has since embarked on having the situation bettered, and is keen on having the backlog cleared.
He stated that he has directed his judges to work very hard and finalize on the cases before them.
"Some of the allegations that have been brought are justified and I have spoken to my people and told them. " Look, you have to work very hard and dispose of these cases"," he added.
His response comes only three days after President Uhuru Kenyatta challenged the judiciary to be steadfast in convicting cases in attempt to slay the graft dragon.
Citing the conviction of the Akasha brothers in the United States, he noted that while the two were jailed after a short while, it would have taken the Kenyan court longer to provide a conviction.