AG proposes law to fast-track corruption cases within six months
Trial courts would be required to complete corruption cases within six months, while appeals at the High Court and Court of Appeal would each be expected to take no more than three and six months respectively.
If passed, a new bill unveiled by Attorney General Dorcas Oduor will compel courts to conclude corruption-related cases, including appeals, within a maximum of one year — a major shift aimed at reducing delays and tightening the fight against graft.
Speaking on Thursday, Oduor introduced the Anti-Corruption Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes strict timelines for handling corruption trials and appeals. “If the amendment goes through, then all corruption cases will have to be concluded within six months,” the AG said.
The proposed law outlines a clear deadline for every stage of the judicial process.
Trial courts would be required to complete corruption cases within six months, while appeals at the High Court and Court of Appeal would each be expected to take no more than three and six months respectively.
The bill also targets forfeiture applications, requiring High Court judges to conclude such matters within half a year.
“Notwithstanding anything contained in any other written law, a forfeiture application under this Act shall, as far as practicable, be heard and determined within six months from the date of the filing of the application,” it reads.
It further limits the number of adjournments that can be granted during trial.
“Notwithstanding anything contained in the Criminal Procedure Code, as far as practicable, the trial of an offence under this Act shall be completed within six months from commencement of the trial,” it states.
“The court shall not grant an application for the adjournment of proceedings, except in compelling and exceptional circumstances.”
Oduor said the overarching goal of the new measures is to build a legal system that restores public confidence, enhances accountability, and ensures state institutions act with integrity.
In addition to the anti-graft bill, Oduor also presented the Public Participation Bill, 2025, and the Whistle-Blower Protection Bill, 2025.
Both are designed to deepen citizen engagement in governance and tighten legal protection around transparency and integrity in public service.
She said the package of proposed laws is part of a broader strategy to remove loopholes that allow impunity and delays in justice. “Tackling corruption swiftly is necessary for stabilising Kenya’s economy and improving governance,” the AG said.
