Justice Zacchaeus Chesoni: Architect of Kenya's judicial independence

Chief Justice Zaccheus Chesoni was a notable Kenyan jurist who served as the Chief Justice of Kenya from 1997 to 1999.

He is remembered for his significant role in the Judiciary and the electoral commission during a moment of political change in the nation.

Chesoni also played a crucial role in overseeing important reforms in the legal system with a focus to improve the rule of law as well as enhance judicial independence in the country.

Chesoni, who also served as the chairman of the defunct Electoral Commission of Kenya, hailed from Chimoi, Bungoma County.

He was the chairman of an electoral body which oversaw the nation’s first multiparty elections after many years of single party rule. 

His leadership at this electoral agency, however, was marred by various allegations. Among these included violence, vote-rigging, irregularities and other malpractices.

His tenure as chief justice of Kenya aligned with a period that was politically sensitive, especially during the multiparty elections of 1992 and 1997 where he oversaw essential electoral petitions.

His legal experience and expertise, alongside a determination to transform the Judiciary, left a lasting impression on Kenyan’s judicial course, especially in promoting judicial independence.

Before becoming chief justice, Chesoni served in different capacities and positions within the judicial system. His career started off as an advocate but rose through the ranks to become a judge of the High Court and Court of Appeal.

While serving in those positions, Chesoni strongly worked to solidify his reputation as a skilled and fair judge.

Chesoni, who was born on January 1, 1936 died in 1999 at Nairobi Hospital out of what the medics claimed was a heart attack.

He was aged 63 at the time of his demise.