The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced the shortlisting of 100 candidates for High Court positions in Kenya. Among the finalists is former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairman Issack Hassan Ahmed, who had previously been considered for a Court of Appeal post but was not selected.
The JSC revealed that out of 305 applicants for the High Court vacancies, only 100 were chosen for interviews, which are scheduled to take place from April 3 to April 30.
According to the JSC, Mr. Hassan, a seasoned High Court advocate, remains in contention for a judicial appointment.
His recent prominence stemmed from speculations by opposition leader Raila Odinga, who identified both Hassan and his successor at the IEBC, Wafula Chebukati, as potential candidates for the Court of Appeal. However, Mr. Chebukati has neither applied nor been shortlisted for the appellate position.
Amidst political implications raised by Odinga regarding a meeting between President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome, Mr. Hassan refuted allegations of political interference, asserting that Odinga’s claims were unfounded.
The shortlisted candidates include notable legal professionals such as Mombasa chief magistrate Alex Ithuku Kimanzi, presiding judge Alfred Gethi Kibiru of the commercial and tax division, and magistrate Caroline Jepyegen Kendagor, who also serves as deputy registrar of the court.
Notably, Ms. Kendagor is among the select few considered for the position of Chief Registrar of the Judiciary. Additionally, several practicing lawyers have been shortlisted, including Agnes Wairimu Njoroge, Andrew Bahati Mwamuye, and Benjamin Mwikya Musyoki, among others.
The recruitment process commenced following a gazette notice issued by Chief Justice Martha Koome in October 2023, indicating vacancies in both the Court of Appeal and the High Court. Eligible candidates were required to submit their applications through the JSC portal.
The selection process signifies a pivotal moment in Kenya’s judicial landscape as the JSC strives to fill essential roles within the judiciary, ensuring its continued effectiveness and integrity.
