Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto has appointed 15 judges to the Court of Appeal, following recommendations by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The appointments were formalized in a Gazette Notice dated January 27, 2026, with the President affirming that the process adhered to constitutional requirements.
Newly Appointed Judges
Among those appointed are:
- Ahmed Issack Hassan, Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)
- Katwa Kigen, senior advocate and former legal representative of President 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
Rigorous Recruitment Process
The appointments follow a highly competitive recruitment exercise conducted by the JSC, which concluded public interviews last week. The process included:
- Public advertisement of vacancies
- Public participation before shortlisting
- Live-streamed interviews
- Comprehensive vetting in line with the Constitution, the Judicial Service Act, and applicable regulations
The JSC emphasized that the selection was guided by constitutional principles of merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity, and regional balance. Candidates were assessed on professional competence, communication skills, integrity, sound judgment, legal and life experience, and commitment to public service and constitutionalism.
Strengthening the Judiciary
With the appointments, the number of judges at the Court of Appeal rises from 27 to 42. The JSC noted that this expansion is expected to:
- Enhance the Court’s capacity
- Reduce the backlog of appeals
- Improve access to justice through faster hearings and determinations
Conclusion
The appointment of 15 new judges marks a significant milestone in strengthening Kenya’s judiciary. By expanding the Court of Appeal, the government and JSC aim to ensure timely justice delivery, uphold constitutional values, and reinforce public confidence in the judicial system.
