President William Ruto on Wednesday presided over a significant milestone in Kenya’s judicial system after swearing in 15 new judges to the Court of Appeal at State House, Nairobi. The ceremony marked a major step in strengthening the country’s appellate judiciary and enhancing the administration of justice.
The event was attended by Chief Justice Martha Koome, members of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), senior government officials, and members of the legal fraternity. The presence of both the Executive and Judiciary leadership underscored the collective commitment to upholding the rule of law and strengthening judicial independence.
Among the newly appointed judges are former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Issack Hassan and seasoned advocate Katwa Kigen. Their appointment is expected to inject extensive legal, administrative, and electoral experience into the appellate court, bringing diverse perspectives to its jurisprudence.
Dressed in ceremonial maroon robes with black accents, the judges took the oath of office, pledging to uphold the Constitution and execute their duties without fear, favour, bias, or prejudice. The solemn ceremony highlighted the weight of responsibility now resting on the new appointees as custodians of justice at a critical level of the judicial hierarchy.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto emphasized the importance of an independent and impartial judiciary in safeguarding democracy and protecting citizens’ rights. He noted that a strong judicial system is essential for national stability, economic growth, and public confidence in state institutions.
Chief Justice Martha Koome welcomed the new judges, noting that their appointment comes at a crucial time when the judiciary is working to enhance efficiency and access to justice. She observed that increasing the number of judges at the Court of Appeal will significantly help in addressing the persistent backlog of cases.
The swearing-in also signified a broader effort to reinforce Kenya’s legal framework and ensure timely resolution of disputes. With the expanded bench, the Court of Appeal is expected to expedite the handling of appeals, reduce delays, and improve service delivery to litigants.
As they assume office, the new judges are now tasked with the critical responsibility of interpreting the law and delivering justice fairly and impartially, reinforcing public trust in the judiciary.
