JSC Nominates 37 Judges as Koome Warns on Corruption Crackdown

JSC Nominates 37 Judges as Koome Warns on Corruption Crackdown

The Judicial Service Commission has nominated 37 candidates for appointment as judges to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s judicial capacity and addressing persistent case backlogs.

The announcement, made on Friday, April 10, follows the conclusion of a competitive recruitment process overseen by Chief Justice Martha Koome. The process attracted hundreds of applicants, reflecting growing interest in judicial service and the expanding role of the courts.

According to the commission, a total of 377 applications were received for High Court positions, while 243 candidates applied for roles in the Environment and Land Court. From these, 100 applicants were shortlisted for High Court interviews and 50 for the Environment and Land Court before the final list of nominees was determined.

In a bid to address staffing gaps and rising caseloads, the JSC increased the number of available positions. High Court slots were expanded from 20 to 24, while those in the Environment and Land Court rose from 10 to 13.

“The expansion of judicial capacity is aimed at improving the judge-to-case ratio and accelerating the hearing and determination of cases,” Koome stated.

Among those nominated to the High Court is Emmanuel Omondi Bitta, a state counsel transitioning from the Office of the Attorney General to the Judiciary. His nomination underscores the inclusion of experienced legal practitioners from diverse backgrounds.

For the Environment and Land Court, Bellinda Akoth Akello emerged as one of the notable candidates, drawing public attention during interviews for her articulate and confident presentation.

The list also includes several magistrates currently serving in different stations, among them Milimani-based judicial officers Ben Mark Ekhubi, Martha Mutuku, and Letizia Wachira, who are set to join the higher bench pending formal appointment.

Koome emphasized that the recruitment drive is part of a broader strategy to enhance access to justice by reducing delays in court processes, noting that an increased number of judges will ease the burden on existing judicial officers.

At the same time, the Chief Justice issued a strong warning on corruption within the Judiciary, following concerns raised in a recent report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. The report highlighted integrity challenges across public institutions, including the judicial sector.

“Our position is simple and firm: we do not tolerate corruption. And we will act wherever integrity is compromised,” Koome said.

She added that the Judiciary has already initiated a structured review of the findings in collaboration with the anti-graft agency, signaling a commitment to strengthening accountability and public trust.

Legal analysts have welcomed the nominations, noting that the addition of 37 judges could significantly improve the efficiency of the court system if appointments are expedited. However, they also stress the importance of maintaining high ethical standards to safeguard the credibility of the Judiciary.

The nominees will now be forwarded to President William Ruto, who is expected to formally appoint them in accordance with constitutional procedures. Once appointed, the judges will be sworn into office and deployed to various courts across the country.

The development marks a significant milestone in ongoing judicial reforms, as Kenya seeks to balance increased capacity with enhanced integrity in its justice system.

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JSC Nominates 37 Judges as Koome Warns on Corruption Crackdown