CJ Koome Appoints 129 Adjudicators to Small Claims Courts: “Justice Must Be Swift and Accessible”
In a bold move to strengthen Kenya’s judicial efficiency, Chief Justice Martha Koome has appointed 129 judicial officers to serve as adjudicators in small claims courts across the country. The appointments, announced in a gazette notice dated September 26, 2025, took effect on September 1 and will run for 12 months.
“Justice Must Be Swift”—Koome Champions Accessible Legal Solutions
CJ Koome emphasized the importance of fast and affordable justice for ordinary Kenyans. She invoked her powers under Section 6(2) of the Small Claims Court Act, 2016, to make the appointments.
“I designate the following Judicial Officers as Adjudicators in any proceedings under the Act,” Koome stated. “They will serve within their current court stations and any future stations deployed from time to time,” she added.
Among those appointed are Manuela Kinyanjui, Mercy Nkirote Kinyua, Dennis Nguli Kioko, Jacklyne Tawai Khalimesi, Jacinta Mwangi Wangeci, and Philomena Nafula Makokha, among others.
“Resolve Disputes Quickly”—Small Claims Courts Offer Relief
Small claims courts aim to resolve civil disputes involving claims up to Ksh1 million. These courts provide a simplified, cost-effective process for Kenyans seeking justice without lengthy delays.
“Adjudicators will preside over cases, apply the law, and uphold court integrity,” the notice explained.
The move is expected to reduce case backlogs and ease pressure on higher courts, especially in densely populated regions.
“Promotions Signal Progress”—JSC Elevates 117 Judicial Officers
This announcement follows another major development. Just a week earlier, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) promoted 117 judicial officers across various ranks.
In a statement released on September 18, JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya confirmed the promotions were based on interviews conducted between August 4 and 13.
“The promotions were ratified during Commission meetings held on 11th and 15th September,” Mokaya stated. “They took effect immediately,” she added.
The breakdown includes nine new Chief Magistrates, 67 Senior Principal Magistrates, six Principal Magistrates, 15 Senior Principal Kadhis, and 20 Principal Kadhis.
“A Judiciary That Works”—Kenyans Applaud Reforms
Many Kenyans have welcomed the appointments and promotions, seeing them as a step toward a more responsive and people-centered judiciary.
“We need courts that work for the people,” said one Nairobi resident. “This is how justice becomes real,” another added.
With these changes, CJ Koome continues to push for a judiciary that delivers timely, fair, and accessible justice for all.
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CJ Koome Appoints 129 Adjudicators to Small Claims Courts: “Justice Must Be Swift and Accessible”
