The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice holds annual Criminology and Criminal Justice Conference
By Simeon Sungi
The Criminology and Criminal Justice Conference (CCJC), 2024 whose theme was ‘Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice: Promoting Peaceful and Inclusive Societies for Sustainable Development in Africa’ was held on July 25 and 26. The event was organized by the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice and brought together leading experts, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and students to discuss critical issues and innovative solutions in crime prevention and criminal justice.
The conference commenced with opening remarks from the Honorable Lady Justice Grace Ngenye, Judge of the Court of Appeal and Chairperson, National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) Committee on Criminal Justice Reforms (NCCJR). Lady Justice Ngenye emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing crime and promoting justice to achieve sustainable development in Africa.
The Honorable Judge expressed gratitude to USIU-Africa for the invitation and emphasized the significance of gathering justice sector professionals, scholars, and students to discuss advancements in criminal justice. The theme aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16, which advocates for peace, justice, and strong institutions. The address underscored the necessity of a proactive crime prevention strategy to foster resilient and equitable communities, integrating crime prevention with broader development goals.
The Hon. Judge emphasized that maintaining public trust and social cohesion requires promoting peaceful and inclusive societies. Strong institutions and robust justice systems are crucial for protecting human rights, upholding the rule of law, ensuring fair treatment, eliminating impunity, and combating corruption. These elements are essential for achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 16.
In Kenya, the need for reforms within the justice sector was catalyzed by the 2010 Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair trial and emphasizes equality and access to justice for all. The ideal criminal justice system should protect innocent persons, convict and rehabilitate offenders, support victims, and maintain order.
Despite constitutional guarantees, the Kenyan criminal justice system faces numerous challenges. A 2017 audit by the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) revealed systemic weaknesses, including a skewed system against the poor, over-enforcement of petty offenses, inadequate bail application, overcrowded detention facilities, and unfavorable conditions for vulnerable groups. There are also gaps in law, policy, and practice that hinder the effective functioning of the criminal justice system.
In response to the audit findings, the NCAJ established the NCCJR in 2017 to spearhead comprehensive reforms. The NCCJR's mandate includes identifying barriers, reviewing laws and policies, ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions, and fostering inter-agency collaboration. The committee has made significant strides, including conducting regional visits, convening national conferences, publishing reports, and developing guidelines.
The NCCJR has developed several key guidelines and policies:
- Sentencing Policy Guidelines (SPGs): Provide comprehensive guidance on sentencing, emphasizing the care owed to victims and offenders' vulnerabilities.
- Guidelines on Arrests and Pre-trial Detention: Aim to enhance procedural efficiency, professionalism, and accountability in protecting the rights of arrested persons.
- Guidelines for Managing Petty Offenders: Advocate for decriminalization and reclassification of petty offenses, promoting non-custodial sentences and alternatives like cautions and warnings.
- Fair Trial Guide and Checklist: Assist criminal justice actors in understanding constitutional rights and obligations.
The NCCJR has also drafted amendments to the Penal Code (Chapter 63) and Criminal Procedure Code (Chapter 75) to address identified gaps and ensure constitutional compliance.
The Hon Judge said academic research is crucial for effective criminal justice reform. It provides empirical data, insights, and innovations needed to develop impactful and sustainable policies and practices. The speaker acknowledged the invaluable contributions of scholars and researchers whose work advances the understanding of criminal justice and crime prevention.
The Hon. Judge extended gratitude to the organizing committee for their dedication and hard work in making the conference possible. The participants were encouraged to actively engage in the sessions, share insights, and contribute to the body of knowledge that will emerge from the conference.
The Hon. Judge concluded her remarks by reminding the audience that the implementation of effective crime prevention strategies can significantly reduce crime, alleviate the burden on criminal justice systems, and contribute to safer societies. The address concluded with appreciation for the scholars and participants, wishing them fruitful deliberations throughout the conference.
This year’s conference was supported by two esteemed organizations, Clean Start Africa, a non-governmental organization that focuses on prisoner re-entry programs for women, and Amnesty International Kenya.
