The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has recommended to President William Ruto names of 20 persons for appointment as Judges of the High Court.
The recommendation is in line with Article 172 (1) (a) of the Constitution.
In a press release sent to news rooms, the Chief Justice who is also the chairperson of the commission Justice Martha Koome said they received 305 applicants and 100 of them were shortlisted.
Out of the shortlisted, 95 candidates attended selection interviews conducted between 3rd April 2024 and 3rd May 2024. 4 candidates withdrew their applications and one candidate (Winfridah Mokaya) was appointed the Chief Registra of the Judiciary.
“The Commission advertised 20 vacancies in the Office of Judge of the High Court on 13th October 2023. Upon closure of the advert, the Commission received a total of 305 applications and shortlisted 100 candidates,” read part of the release.
The 20 have been recommended after considering several factors including the constitutional imperatives of merit, gender, regional/ethnic balance and affirmative action.
List of 20 High Court judges JSC recommended
The recommended persons are Moses Ado Otieno, Alice Chepngetich Bett Soi, Benjamin Mwikya Musyoki, John Lolwatan Tamar, Francis Weche Andayi, Andrew Bahati Mwamuye, Julius Kipkosgei Ng’arng’ar, Wendy Kagendo Micheni, Emily Onyando Ominde and Helene Rafaela Namisi.
Others are Alexander Muasya Muteti, Julius Mukut Nangea, Benjamin Kimani Njoroge, Caroline Jepyegen Kendagor, Stephen Nzisi Mbungi, Linus Poghon Kassan, Noel Onditi Adagi Inziani, Tabitha Ouya Wanyama, Rhoda Cherotich Rutto and Joe Omido Mkutu.
On behalf of the commission, Justice Koome congratulated the nominees.
If President Ruto will consider them for appointment, this will significantly reduce Judges shortage and improve on access to justice in Kenya.
