The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has nominated 15 candidates for appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal, following the conclusion of a rigorous and highly competitive interview process on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
Notable Nominees
Among those nominated are:
- Issack Hassan, Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)
- Katwa Kigen, senior advocate who has previously represented President William Ruto
- Justice Chacha Mwita
- Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi
- Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi
- Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo
- Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna
- Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo
- Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich
- Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo
- Brown Murungi Kairaria
- Paul Lilan
- Justice Munyao Sila
- Johnson Okoth Okello
- Justice Byram Ongaya
Transparent Recruitment Process
In a statement, the JSC emphasized that the public interviews marked the final stage of a recruitment exercise that included:
- Public advertisement of vacancies
- Public participation before shortlisting
- Live-streamed interviews
- Comprehensive vetting in line with the Constitution of Kenya, the Judicial Service Act, and applicable regulations
The names of the successful nominees will now be forwarded to the President for appointment in accordance with Article 166(1)(b) of the Constitution.
Guiding Principles
The JSC noted that its decision was guided by constitutional principles of:
- Merit and integrity
- Fairness and inclusivity
- Gender parity and regional balance
Candidates were assessed on professional competence, communication skills, integrity, sound judgment, legal and life experience, and a demonstrated commitment to public service, the rule of law, and constitutionalism.
Strengthening the Court of Appeal
The nominees represent a mix of serving High Court judges and senior advocates, reflecting what the Commission described as a balanced blend of judicial experience and legal practice.
Upon appointment, the additional judges will increase the strength of the Court of Appeal from 27 to 42 judges. The JSC stated that this expansion is intended to:
- Enhance the Court’s capacity
- Ease the backlog of appeals
- Improve access to justice through faster hearings and determinations
Conclusion
The nomination of 15 new judges marks a significant step in strengthening Kenya’s judiciary. By expanding the Court of Appeal, the JSC aims to ensure more efficient delivery of justice, uphold constitutional principles, and reinforce public confidence in the judicial system.
