Kenya’s push to streamline justice delivery has received a significant boost after the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) nominated 37 judges for appointment to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court (ELC), in what is being hailed as a bold step toward reducing case backlog and enhancing access to justice.
In a statement released on April 10, 2026, Chief Justice Martha Koome, who also chairs the commission, confirmed that the nominees emerged from a rigorous, transparent, and competitive recruitment process conducted in strict adherence to constitutional and statutory requirements.
Initially, the JSC had advertised 20 High Court and 10 ELC vacancies in June 2025. However, the number was revised upward to 24 High Court positions and 13 ELC slots following promotions to the Court of Appeal and a retirement within the ELC.
Koome emphasized that the selection process was conducted in full public view, with interviews broadcast live and members of the public invited to submit memoranda on candidates—an approach aimed at reinforcing transparency and accountability.
“The process was competitive, transparent, and conducted in full view of the public,” Koome stated.
The High Court nominees reflect a diverse mix of legal professionals, including magistrates, advocates, and scholars. Among those shortlisted are Robinson Ondieki Kebabe, Roseline Akinyi Oganyo, Paul Kipkosgei Rotich, Joyce Mkambe Gandani, and David Wanjohi Mburu. Others include Anne Mary Auma Okutoyi, Abdi Mohamud Hassan, and Dr. Nabil Mokaya Orina.
For the ELC, nominees include John Walter Wanyonyi, Jecinta Atieno Orwa, Cyprian Mugambi Nguthari, Charity Chebii Oluoch, and Elena Gathoni Nderitu.
Koome noted that the commission prioritized merit, integrity, professional competence, and commitment to the rule of law, while also ensuring gender balance, inclusivity, and regional representation.
The nominees’ names have been forwarded to President William Ruto for formal appointment, in line with constitutional provisions.
Once appointed, the number of High Court judges will rise from 91 to 115, while ELC judges will increase from 48 to 61—an expansion expected to significantly ease the burden on Kenya’s courts.
The move comes at a time when the Judiciary faces mounting pressure to expedite case resolution and rebuild public trust. The JSC expressed confidence that the additional judges will accelerate the handling of cases and improve service delivery across the country.
The announcement also coincides with heightened scrutiny of corruption in public institutions following findings by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in the Kenya National Gender and Corruption Survey 2025.
Reaffirming the Judiciary’s stance, Koome reiterated a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, revealing that the commission has already begun reviewing the report in collaboration with the anti-graft agency.
“We do not tolerate corruption and will act wherever integrity is compromised,” she said, urging Kenyans to report misconduct involving judicial officers.
Koome highlighted ongoing reforms within the Judiciary, including the automation of court processes and the establishment of integrity committees, as part of broader efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
With the latest nominations, the JSC signals a renewed commitment to strengthening Kenya’s justice system—an essential pillar in upholding the rule of law and supporting the country’s democratic and economic growth.
