Faith Odhiambo: JSC’s 15 nominees will strengthen Court of Appeal

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has congratulated the 15 nominees selected by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC for appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal.

According to Odhiambo, their addition will significantly strengthen the country’s appellate court and enrich Kenya’s jurisprudence.

In a statement following the announcement, Odhiambo lauded the nominees and expressed confidence in their ability to serve with diligence and integrity.

“Congratulations to all the nominees for the position of Judge of the Court of Appeal. We believe that the Court is strengthened by their addition, and look forward to their contributions in enriching our jurisprudence. May they all serve diligently, with integrity and fidelity to the law,” she said.

JSC Thursday announced that it had nominated 15 candidates, a move expected to significantly expand the capacity of the Court of Appeal and accelerate the resolution of pending cases.

Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Commission had concluded a rigorous, transparent and competitive recruitment process and would forward the names to President William Ruto for appointment in accordance with the Constitution.

The nominees comprise serving judges, senior legal practitioners and former public officials drawn from across the country.

They include Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi, Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi, Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo, Justice Enock Chacha Mwita, Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna, Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo, Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich, Justice Joseph Kipchumba Kigen Katwa and Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo.

Others are Justice Brown Murungi Kairaria, Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan, Justice Paul Lilan, Justice Munyao Sila, Justice Johnson Okoth Okello and Justice Byram Ongaya.

According to the JSC, the recruitment exercise was publicly advertised and incorporated public participation at multiple stages, including shortlisting and interviews, which were broadcast live.

Koome noted that vetting was conducted strictly in line with the Constitution, the Judicial Service Act and relevant regulations.

The Commission said the selections were guided by constitutional principles of merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity and regional balance.

Candidates were assessed on competence, communication skills, judgment, experience, integrity and commitment to the rule of law and public service.

Once appointed, the number of judges at the Court of Appeal will rise from 27 to 42, marking one of the most significant staffing boosts in recent years.

The expansion is intended to ease the court’s heavy workload, reduce the backlog of cases and enhance access to justice through faster determination of appeals.

The JSC congratulated the nominees and thanked all applicants and members of the public who participated in the process, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and the efficient administration of justice.