New DPP outlines vision, defends Haji

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga. [File, Standard]

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga has defended his predecessor Noordin Haji over the withdrawal of high-profile graft-related cases.

In his first address to the press, Ingonga said all the cases withdrawn lacked evidence to secure a conviction or there was a change of circumstances.

"No case was withdrawn without a reason and condition of the court. We have cases that the court has declined to withdraw. Circumstances also vary and at times the evidence you have will not support a conviction," said Ingonga.

He said that if some of the cases end up in acquittals, the state will face malicious charges and waste the taxpayers' money in legal suits.

Ingonga said graft is on top of his agenda and will be fought from all fonts with the help of all stakeholders.

"Graft will be fought from all fronts, not one way. Corruption is not fought by one person but all, including the citizens," said Ingonga.

The DPP said that his regime is working hand in hand with the Director of Criminal Investigations as opposed to the past when the two agencies were at loggerheads, which affected the delivery of justice.

"There was some fight between the ODPP and the DCI on prosecutorial matters but the fight is no longer there. We are working in collaboration and consultation with all state agencies in the criminal justice system to ensure quick delivery of justice," said Ingonga.

The DPP said contrary to claims, his office is independent and not under any direction to discharge its mandate.

At the same time, he distanced himself from delays of cases which were determined by several factors including adjournments.

Ingonga vowed to ensure the rule of law is followed in the justice criminal system.

The DPP said in his tenure he will ensure that the justice delivery system is not compromised, warning he will hold law enforcement officers to account for human rights violations.

Ingonga said his office has enhanced collaboration with different stakeholders in the criminal justice system to enable justice to prevail for all Kenyans.