Judiciary cancels 171 vacancies as budget cuts bite
The affected positions include 60 vacancies for legal researchers, 25 diploma internships in office administration (secretarial services), and 12 graduate internships in information communication and technology (ICT).
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has canceled 171 job vacancies in the Judiciary, citing financial constraints.
In a notice on Tuesday, JSC announced the withdrawal of the advertised positions but did not specify if or when they would be re-advertised.
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"This is to notify the general public and the applicants that owing to fiscal constraints currently affecting the country, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has cancelled the advertisements for the following positions," the notice read in part.
The affected positions include 60 vacancies for legal researchers, 25 diploma internships in office administration (secretarial services), and 12 graduate internships in information communication and technology (ICT).
Others include graduate and diploma internship positions in fields such as supply chain management, records management, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.
JSC advised applicants seeking further clarification to contact the commission through its official phone number, email, or offices at CBK Pension Towers in Nairobi.
Last year in November, Chief Justice Martha Koome raised concerns over the persistent underfunding of the Judiciary, revealing that its budget has been cut by nearly 50 percent over the last three financial years.
Speaking during the launch of the State of the Judiciary and Administration of Justice Report 2023-2024, Koome noted that while the Judiciary had achieved a 99 percent case clearance rate, financial challenges were limiting further progress.
"We are doing our very best with very little resources to ensure we celebrate these gains. However, we must recognise the pressing need for further investment," she said.
The Judiciary received Sh22.42 billion in the last financial year 2023-2024, far below its required Sh43.17 billion. The funding shortfall has had a ripple effect, impacting recruitment and operations.
For instance, the Court of Appeal currently has only 29 judges instead of the required 70.
CJ Koome noted that plans to recruit more judges had been shelved due to budgetary constraints.
The cancellation of the 171 job vacancies reflects the ongoing financial strain on the Judiciary, raising concerns about its ability to meet growing demands for justice.
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