ODPP champions rights-based policing, community safety

In Kayole North, Embakasi Central, Nairobi ODPP had an engagement centred on establishing the inaugural Policing Communities of Practice (PCoPs), a platform that brings together law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, oversight bodies and communities to address security and justice concerns.

Speaking on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Violet Kerubo, Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (SADPP), delivered the Office's remarks and explained that under Article 157 of the Constitution, the ODPP is mandated to prosecute cases in the public interest, prevent abuse of legal process and safeguard the rights of victims, accused persons and the community.

She noted that justice begins at the point of interaction between police officers and citizens, clarifying that mistrust, excessive force and disregard for human rights could undermine the justice process.

Kerubo outlined four key prosecutorial mechanisms, Decisions to Charge, Plea Bargaining, Diversion and Deferred Prosecution, explaining their role in promoting fairness and accountability.

“Prosecution is not merely about securing convictions; it is equally about ensuring fairness, accountability and the administration of justice.

"Through Decisions to Charge, Plea Bargaining, Diversion and Deferred Prosecution, we have mechanisms that enable prosecutors to make informed, proportionate and responsible decisions while safeguarding the public interest and the rights of all parties," she noted.

Kerubo called on residents to report crime, volunteer as witnesses and actively engage justice institutions in promoting community safety.