Justice Gatembu Kairu
Justice Gatembu Kairu has been elected President of the Court of Appeal following an election conducted by Judges of Appeal.
In the election held on Monday, June 22, Justice Kairu secured 26 of the 41 votes cast and was declared the winner.
The election followed the expiry of the term of former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Musinga, on 24 May 2026.
The election had been scheduled in accordance with the Court of Appeal Election Rules and was overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The position attracted a total of four candidates, including Justice Kairu, Justice Patrick Kiage, Justice Agnes Murgor, and Justice Lydia Achode.
Chief Justice Martha Koome congratulated Justice Kairu on his election and wished him success in his new role as the President of the Court of Appeal.
“His election marks the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of the Court as it continues to uphold the rule of law, protect constitutional values, and deliver justice to the people of Kenya.
“The Judiciary congratulates Justice Gatembu Kairu on his election and wishes him every success as he assumes this important leadership role,” Koome wrote.
The Chief Justice also commends the other three candidates who participated in the election, saying they demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism, collegiality, and commitment to judicial service.
Justice Kairu brings to the office extensive experience as an advocate, arbitrator, mediator, legal scholar, and Judge of the Court of Appeal.
He joined the Court of Appeal in 2012 after a distinguished legal career in private practice, alternative dispute resolution, and legal education.
Justice Kairu holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from Boston University, a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi, and a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.
The President of the Court of Appeal is responsible for providing administrative and judicial leadership to judges serving in the court and plays a key role in the management of appeals across the country.
