The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted 100 candidates to fill 20 vacant High Court judge positions, marking another major step in strengthening Kenya’s judiciary.
In a notice released on October 23, 2025, the Commission said the shortlist followed a public call for applications published in June, which drew 377 applicants from across the country.
“The JSC, having reviewed the applications for completeness and conformity with the requirements of the Constitution and the advertisement, has shortlisted one hundred (100) candidates for the post of Judge of the High Court,” the notice read.
The recruitment process aims to fill long-standing judicial gaps that have strained court operations and delayed justice in some regions.
A Diverse Slate of Legal Minds
The list includes a broad mix of legal professionals — sitting magistrates, practising advocates, state counsel, and legal academics.
Among those named are former Nyeri Woman Representative Priscilla Nyokabi Kanyu, Hon. Esther Kalunde Kimilu, Henry Faraji Chipinde, Patricia Naeku Leparashao, and Hon. Yusuf Abdallah Shikanda. Others include Anne Mary Auma Okutoyi, Salma Noah Ramadhan, and Hon. Martha Wanzila Mutuku, reflecting a growing gender and regional diversity within the pool.
Observers say this diversity signals the JSC’s effort to balance experience, integrity, and representation in judicial appointments.
Public Scrutiny Invited
Before interviews begin, the JSC has invited the public to share any information or concerns about the shortlisted candidates. Written submissions may be sent to the Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission at recruitment@jsc.go.ke or delivered to the Commission’s offices at CBK Pension Towers, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi.
The Commission assured that all information will be handled confidentially and, if necessary, members of the public who submit reports may be invited for follow-up interviews.
Upholding Merit and Integrity
In a statement, Winfridah B. Mokaya, Secretary to the JSC, reaffirmed the body’s commitment to integrity and fairness throughout the process.
“The Judicial Service Commission is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting merit, fairness, and open competition from the widest range of eligible candidates,” she said.
The High Court recruitment comes at a time when Kenya’s judiciary continues to face pressure to improve case backlogs and enhance public trust. Appointing more judges is seen as a key step toward ensuring faster, more efficient justice delivery across the country.
The JSC said interview dates will be announced soon.
