In a significant move to strengthen the judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has nominated 15 lawyers, including Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chair Issack Hassan and Senior Counsel Katwa Kigen, to serve as judges in the Court of Appeal. The list of nominees also includes well-known figures in the legal profession such as Judges Chacha Mwita, Hedwig Ong’udi, Mathews Nderi, and others.
According to JSC Chairperson and Chief Justice Martha Koome, the selection process for these nominees was based on constitutional principles, emphasizing merit, fairness, integrity, gender parity, and regional balance. The candidates were rigorously evaluated on various criteria, including professional competence, communication skills, legal experience, and their commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism.
This appointment will increase the Court of Appeal’s capacity from 27 to 42 judges, helping address the growing backlog of cases and improve access to justice in Kenya. The additional judges will be crucial in ensuring timely hearings and the swift resolution of appeals, reinforcing the court’s ability to serve the public effectively.
Chief Justice Koome highlighted that the JSC remains committed to enhancing the efficiency and transparency of Kenya’s judicial system, underlining the importance of maintaining a robust, independent judiciary that upholds the values of the Constitution.
