The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced a list of 15 nominees for Court of Appeal judge positions. The list includes prominent lawyers and High Court judges, and will be forwarded to President William Ruto for formal appointment. This appointment will increase the number of judges from 27 to 42.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has concluded its recruitment exercise and released a list of 15 nominees for the position of Judge of the Court of Appeal on Thursday, January 22, 2026. In a statement signed by Chief Justice Martha Koome, the commission stated that the process complied fully with the Judicial Service Act of 2011 and applicable regulations.
Among the nominees is Joseph Katwa Kigen, a senior counsel who has represented President William Ruto in key legal battles and is the current head of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). Other notable nominees include High Court Judge Chacha Mwita, 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 features Hon. Mr. Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo, Hon. Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich, Hon. Mr. Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, Mr. Brown Murungi Kairaria, Paul Lila, Hon. Mr. Justice Munyao Sila, Johnson Okoth Okello, and Hon. Mr. Justice Byram Ongaya.
"In reaching its decision, the commission was guided by constitutional principles, including merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity and regional balance," the JSC said in its statement. The process was live-streamed to enhance transparency and accountability.
The names will now be transmitted to President William Ruto in line with Article 166 (1) (b) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which requires the President to appoint judges upon nomination by the JSC. This addition will boost the court's capacity to handle cases by increasing the number of judges from 27 to 42. The JSC congratulated the nominees and thanked all participants, reaffirming its commitment to transparent justice administration.
