Issack Hassan, Katwa Kigen among 15 nominated to be Court of Appeal judges

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has nominated 15 candidates for appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal after concluding a rigorous and highly competitive interview process on Wednesday, January 21.

Among the nominees is Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Issack Hassan and Katwa Kigen, a senior advocate who has previously represented President William Ruto.

Others are High Court Judge Chacha Mwita, Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi, Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi, Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo, Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna, Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo and Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich.

Also on the list is Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, Brown Murungi Kairaria, Paul Lilan, Justice Munyao Sila, Johnson Okoth Okello and Justice Byram Ongaya. 

In a statement, JSC stated that the public interviews marked the final stage of a recruitment exercise that included public advertisement of vacancies, public participation before shortlisting, live-streamed interviews and comprehensive vetting carried out in line with the Constitution of Kenya, the Judicial Service Act and applicable regulations.

The names of the successful nominees will now be forwarded to the President for appointment in accordance with Article 166(1)(b) of the Constitution.

In reaching its decision, the JSC said it was guided by constitutional principles of merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity and regional balance, with candidates assessed on professional competence, written and oral communication skills, integrity, sound judgment, legal and life experience, and a demonstrated commitment to public service, the rule of law and constitutionalism.

The nominees comprise a mix of serving High Court judges and senior advocates, reflecting what the Commission described as a balanced blend of judicial experience and legal practice.

Upon appointment, the additional judges will increase the strength of the Court of Appeal from 27 to 42 judges, a move the Commission said is intended to enhance the Court’s capacity, ease the backlog of appeals and improve access to justice through faster hearing and determination of cases.