President William Ruto has appointed 15 new judges to the Court of Appeal, acting on recommendations made by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in a move aimed at strengthening the judiciary and easing the growing backlog of cases.
The appointments were formalised through a Gazette Notice dated January 27, 2026, with the President stating that the process was conducted in full compliance with constitutional requirements.
Among those appointed are Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan and senior advocate Katwa Kigen, who has previously represented President Ruto. The list also includes a mix of serving High Court judges and experienced legal practitioners.
Other appointees are Justice 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 appointed to the appellate bench are Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, Brown Murungi Kairaria, Paul Lilan, Justice Munyao Sila, Johnson Okoth Okello, and Justice Byram Ongaya.
The appointments follow a highly competitive recruitment process conducted by the JSC, which concluded public interviews last week. The Commission said the process involved public advertisement of vacancies, public participation before shortlisting, live-streamed interviews, and extensive vetting in line with the Constitution, the Judicial Service Act, and relevant regulations.
According to the JSC, candidates were assessed based on professional competence, integrity, communication skills, sound judgment, legal experience, and commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and public service, while also observing principles of gender parity, inclusivity, and regional balance.
With the new appointments, the number of judges at the Court of Appeal increases from 27 to 42. The JSC said the expanded bench is expected to enhance the Court’s capacity, reduce delays in the hearing and determination of appeals, and improve access to justice.
The Court of Appeal plays a critical role in Kenya’s judicial system, hearing appeals from the High Court and setting important legal precedents that shape the country’s jurisprudence.
