Justice Fatuma Sichale sworn in as new Court of Appeal representative to JSC

Sichale was sworn in by Chief Justice Martha Koome on Monday, replacing the outgoing Justice Mohammed Warsame who completed his second term.

Koome expressed confidence in Sichale's appointment adding that she will be needed to use her years of expertise in promoting an independent and transparent Judiciary.

"I am certain you will be a valuable team player in the commission. Your 40 years in service is a rich addition which I'm sure will add value to the commission," said Koome.

Koome also thanked outgoing Warsame for his dedication to service through the years he has served in the office, terming him an integral player in the advancement of judicial independence.

After taking oath of office, Justice Sichale expressed gratitude for being chosen to occupy the position, vowing to serve with diligence and integrity.

"40 years ago I was on these same premises interviewing to be a district magistrate 2," she said. 

"To be sworn in today is the pinnacle of one's judicial career I undertake to work hard and diligently and to be of service to all, regardless of their position and stature."

The JSC consists of 11 members headed by the CJ, one Supreme Court judge elected by the judges of the Supreme Court and one Court of Appeal judge elected by the judges of the Court of Appeal.

Others are one High Court judge and one magistrate (one a woman and one a man) elected by the members of the association of judges and magistrates, the Attorney General, and one person nominated by the Public Service Commission (PSC)

It also includes one woman and one man, who are not lawyers, who represent the public and are appointed by the President with the approval of the National Assembly.

The last two persons are advocates (one a woman and one a man) with at least a 15-year experience, elected by the members of the statutory body responsible for the professional regulation of advocates.

They are mandated, under Article Article 172(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, to recommend to the President persons for appointment as judges and also review and make recommendations on the conditions of service of judges and judiciary staff.

They also vet and select the Chief Justice.

All members of the commission apart from the Chief Justice and Attorney General hold office for a term of five years and shall be eligible to be nominated for one further term of five years.