The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is preparing to scrutinize candidates competing for the positions of High Court Judges, with Chief Justice Martha Koome leading the process.
Attorney General Justin Muturi and former Bomet Governor Isaac Kiprono Rutto are among the members of the JSC Commission.
The 12-member Commission has been assigned the responsibility of selecting 20 judges from a pool of 100 shortlisted candidates. The selection process is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, April 3, as the Judiciary strives to bolster the number of judges.
While CJ Koome assumes the role of chairing the Commission, Macharia Njeru, representing the Law Society of Kenya, will serve as the Vice Chairperson, lending insight and oversight to the vetting proceedings.
Joining them are legal luminaries such as High Court Judge Justice David Majanja, Chief Magistrate Everlyne Olwande, and Court of Appeal Judge Fatuma Sichale.
Additionally, Jacqueline Ingutiah stands as the voice of the Law Society of Kenya, advocating for the interests of legal practitioners throughout the vetting process.
Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim, Caroline Nzilani Ajuoga representing the public, and Charity Seleina Kisotu as the Public Service Commission Representative, further enrich the Commission's diversity with their respective perspectives and backgrounds.
Notably, Chief Registrar Judiciary Winfridah Boyani Mokaya will play a crucial role as the Commission Secretary, ensuring the smooth operation and documentation of the vetting proceedings.
In a statement issued through a Gazette notice dated February 5, Chief Justice Koome announced five vacant positions within the High Court.
"Pursuant to Section 30 of the Judicial Service Act and Section 3 Part II of the First Schedule of the Judiciary Act 2011, I Martha K. Koome, Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya, declare vacancies in the Office of Judge of the High Court of the Republic of Kenya," read the notice.
Applicants for the judicial positions are required to hold a law degree from a recognised university or be an Advocate of the High Court.
Alternatively, they should possess an equivalent qualification in a Common Law Jurisdiction, accompanied by at least a decade of experience either as a superior court judge, a professionally qualified magistrate or as distinguished academic or legal practitioners.
The deadline for applications was set for March 5, 2024, with appointments to be made in accordance with the Constitution and the Judicial Service Act.
Successful candidates are poised to enjoy a gross monthly remuneration package ranging from Ksh750,000 to Ksh1,029,691. The role of a High Court Judge carries extensive responsibilities, with the mandate encompassing unlimited original jurisdiction in both criminal and civil matters.
Furthermore, High Court Judges are entrusted with the authority to adjudicate on matters concerning the interpretation of the Constitution, thereby safeguarding constitutional rights and freedoms.
The Commission encompasses a diverse range of legal experts, including High Court Judge Justice David Majanja, Chief Magistrate Everlyne Olwande, and Court of Appeal Judge Fatuma Sichale, among others.
