The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has officially announced the list of 15 nominees for the prestigious position of Judge in Kenya’s Court of Appeal. This follows the completion of a comprehensive recruitment process aimed at selecting qualified and capable individuals for this important judicial role. Among the notable nominees are some prominent legal figures, including Joseph Katwa Kigen, a senior counsel and the current head of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and High Court judge Chacha Mwita, who has now earned a spot in the race to become a judge in Kenya’s intermediate appellate court.
The JSC, which is tasked with appointing judges, concluded the recruitment process with full adherence to the Judicial Service Act, 2011, and other applicable regulations. Transparency and accountability were key considerations, with the entire process being broadcast live. This move highlights the commission’s commitment to ensuring the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and gender balance in judicial appointments.
In addition to Kigen and Mwita, other notable nominees include Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi, Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi, Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo, and Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna. The full list also includes Hon. Mr. Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo, Hon. Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich, and Hon. Mr. Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, among others.
The appointment of additional judges to the Court of Appeal is expected to significantly increase the court’s capacity to handle its caseload. With the new appointments, the number of judges in the Court of Appeal will rise to 42, up from the previous 27, enhancing the efficiency of the appellate court.
Following the JSC’s decision, the nominees’ names will be forwarded to President William Ruto for final approval, in line with Article 166 (1)(b) of the Constitution of Kenya. This process underscores Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its judicial system and ensuring access to justice for all citizens.
