The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has declared a vacancy in the Office of Judge of the Supreme Court, inviting qualified legal professionals to apply for the position.
The announcement was made through a special issue of the Kenya Gazette dated January 13, 2026, and signed by Chief Justice Martha Koome.
According to the Gazette Notice, the position falls under the Judicial Service Act and is part of the Supreme Court’s mandate as outlined in the Constitution.
The vacancy arises as the Judiciary moves to fill one post on the seven-member bench.
“The appointment shall be made in accordance with Article 166 (1) (b), (2) and (3) of the Constitution and Section 30, Part V and the First Schedule of the Judicial Service Act, No.1 of 2011,” Koome said.
She stated that the appointment will be conducted in line with Article 166 of the Constitution and the Judicial Service Act.
The successful candidate will serve until the mandatory retirement age of 70, with an option for early retirement at 65 as provided under the Constitution.
Koome stated that the remuneration will follow the guidelines set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, with a gross monthly package ranging between Sh956,192 and Sh1,268,996, inclusive of benefits.
The Gazette outlines the jurisdictional mandate of the Supreme Court, which includes exclusive authority to hear and determine disputes relating to presidential elections under Article 140.
The Court also hears appeals from the Court of Appeal and other tribunals as permitted by law.
Additional functions include issuing advisory opinions at the request of national and county governments and addressing applications arising from emergencies.
Applicants must meet strict constitutional and statutory requirements.
They are required to hold a law degree from a recognised university, be advocates of the High Court of Kenya or possess an equivalent qualification from a common-law jurisdiction.
Candidates must also demonstrate extensive legal experience.
This includes at least 15 years as a superior court judge, or 15 years as a distinguished legal practitioner with relevant experience.
Alternatively, an applicant may combine legal practice and judicial service, provided the total experience amounts to not less than fifteen years.
The Gazette further highlights the need for applicants to meet the integrity standards set out in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
They must demonstrate high moral character, impartiality, good judgment and a commitment to public service.
Chief Justice Koome noted that candidates must also show strong professional competence, communication skills, fairness, and a wide breadth of legal and life experience.
The JSC emphasised that the application process would be open and competitive, with detailed instructions available on its official portal.
The notice signals the start of a formal recruitment exercise that is expected to attract senior legal minds from across the country.
The declaration of the vacancy marks an important step as the Judiciary seeks to strengthen the Supreme Court, which plays a key role in shaping constitutional interpretation, safeguarding the rule of law, and resolving high-stakes national disputes.
Applications are expected to be submitted in accordance with the timelines and requirements set out by the JSC.
“Interested and qualified persons are invited to visit the Commission’s jobs portal: https://jsc.go.ke/jobs-2/. for instructions on how to apply,” CJ Koome directed.
The office was left vacant following the death of Justice Ibrahim Mohamed on December 17, 2025.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!