JSC recommends 20 High Court judges to President Ruto

Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Chairperson Justice Martha Koome.[Jonah Onyango,Standard]

 The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has recommended 20 individuals for appointment as Judges of the High Court, following a rigorous selection process.

The JSC, as mandated under Article 172 (1) (a) of the Constitution, is responsible for recommending individuals for such appointments.

In a statement on Friday, May 3, JSC Chairperson Justice Martha Koome disclosed that the Commission had advertised 20 vacancies for the Office of Judge of the High Court on October 13, 2023.

The response was substantial, with a total of 305 applications received. From these, 100 candidates were shortlisted.

The Commission conducted selection interviews from April 3, 2024, to May 3, 2024.

 Of the shortlisted candidates, 95 were interviewed, 4 withdrew their applications, and 1 was appointed as the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary.

“After lengthy deliberations and consideration of the constitutional imperatives of merit, gender, regional/ethnic balance, and affirmative action, the Commission has recommended the following individuals for appointment to the Office of Judge of the High Court of Kenya,” said Koome.

The list of recommended individuals includes Moses Ado Otieno, Alice Chepngetich Bett Soi, Benjamin Mwikya Musyoki, John Lolwatan Tamar, Francis Weche Andayi, Andrew Bahati Mwamuye, and Julius Kipkosgei Ng’arng’ar.

 Others are Wendy Kagendo Micheni, Emily Onyando Ominde, Helene Rafaela Namisi, Alexander Muasya Muteti, Julius Mukut Nangea, Benjamin Kimani Njoroge, Caroline Jepyegen Kendagor, Stephen Nzisi Mbungi, and Linus Poghon Kassan.

 Noel Onditi Adagi Inziani, Tabitha Ouya Wanyama, Rhoda Cherotich Rutto, and Joe Omido Mkutu are also part of the nominees.

The Commission has forwarded the names to President William Ruto for appointment.