President William Ruto has appointed 20 new judges of the High Court.
In a Gazette notice dated, Thursday, May 9, Ruto confirmed the appointment of the 20 following successful interviews that were conducted by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
Among those appointed include Moses Ado Otieno, Alice Chepngetich Bett Soi, Benjamin Mwikya Musyoki, John Lolwatan Tamar, Francis Weche Andayi, Andrew Bahati Mwamuye and Julius Kipkosgei Ng’arng’ar.
Wendy Kagendo Micheni, Emily Onyando Ominde, Helene Rafaela Namisi, Alexander Muasya Muteti, Julius Mukut Nangea, and Benjamin Kimani Njoroge were also listed in the appointments.
Also appointed were Caroline Jepyegen Kendagor, Stephen Nzisi Mbungi, Linus Poghon Kassan and Noel Onditi Adagi Inziani.
The Head of State also appointed Tabitha Ouya Wanyama, Rhoda Cherotich Rutto, and Joe Omido Mkutu.
"In exercise of the powers conferred by Article 166 (1) (b) of the Constitution of Kenya, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint the following to be Judges of the High Court of Kenya," read the Gazette in part.
Ruto made the appointments following recommendations by the JSC which is headed by Chief Justice Martha Koome.
95 candidates had been shortlisted for the interviews that were conducted in April.
"The Commission conducted the selection interviews between 3rd April 2024 and 3rd May 2024. A total of 95 candidates were interviewed, 4 candidates withdrew their applications, and 1 candidate was appointed the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary.
"After lengthy deliberations and consideration of the constitutional imperatives of merit, gender, regional/ethnic balance and affirmative action, the Commission has recommended the under-listed persons for appointment to the Office of Judge of the High Court of Kenya and submitted their names to His Excellency the President for appointment pursuant to Article 166 (1) (b) of the Constitution," read the statement by the CJ.
Following the appointment, the 20 will be taking an oath of office in the coming days.
