Anne Amadi: The Judiciary veteran eyeing IEBC’s top seat

After a decade at the helm of the Judiciary’s administrative wing, Anne Atieno Amadi signed off as Chief Registrar on January 12, 2024.

Having spent years in the public limelight, she stepped away from the demanding role into a quieter life.

But just over a year later, she is back in the race for public service, aiming to make history as the first woman to chair the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Amadi is among 11 candidates shortlisted for the position left vacant by the late Wafula Chebukati, with interviews set to begin on March 24, 2025.

Legal career spanning decades

Amadi’s journey in law began in 1989 when she was admitted as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya. Her early years saw her rise from a District Magistrate II (Professional) in 1990 to a Resident Magistrate.

She then transitioned to private legal practice as the proprietor of A. A. Amadi & Co. Advocates between 1997 and 2003. Her career took a shift towards legal aid and advocacy when she joined the Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA) as Deputy Executive Director from 2003 to 2008.

Amadi later became the National Coordinator of the National Legal Aid and Awareness Programme (NALEAP) under the Ministry of Justice, where she championed access to justice for marginalised communities.

In 2014, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) appointed her as Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, making her responsible for the institution’s administration, finances, and staff management.

She played a key role in streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency, despite limited funding for the Judiciary compared to other arms of government.

Breaking barriers

As the Chief Registrar, Amadi was a central figure in Kenya’s legal system. She oversaw the swearing-in of two Presidents, Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017 and William Ruto in 2022 an honor no other Chief Registrar had accomplished before.

Additionally, she managed leadership transitions within the Judiciary, including those of former Chief Justices Willy Mutunga and David Maraga.

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Beyond her administrative role, Amadi is a trained mediator and an expert in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

She has also worked with international organisations, collaborating with partners in Africa, Europe, and the United States.

The Gold Scam controversy

Despite her accomplishments, Amadi’s career has not been without controversy. In May 2023, she was implicated in a gold scam involving Bruton Gold Trading, a Dubai-based company allegedly defrauded Sh102 million. Her bank accounts were frozen in the ensuing legal battle.

However, Amadi remained defiant, maintaining her innocence and vowing to clear her name.

"I’m waiting for my day in court, and that is one of the matters I will not accept a virtual hearing. I want to be present personally and meet my accuser. I am waiting for that day and I’m prepared," she said during an interview with the Daily Nation in December 2023.

Now, Amadi is setting her sights on the IEBC chairmanship, a role that would place her at the centre of Kenya’s electoral processes. If successful, she will become the first woman to lead the commission, overseeing crucial national elections and reforms.