JSC shortlists 100 candidates for High Court judge positions
The list highlights a blend of experienced magistrates, seasoned advocates, and public sector legal officers.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has revealed a shortlist of 100 candidates competing for appointment as Judges of the High Court, following a highly competitive recruitment process that received 377 applications.
This process is part of efforts to fill 20 vacant positions and strengthen the capacity of Kenya’s superior court.
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The public call for applications was issued on June 9, 2025, and the submission window closed on July 7, 2025. After a detailed assessment to ensure all applicants met constitutional and professional criteria, the commission finalised a list of 100 candidates for the next stage.
“Upon reviewing all submissions for completeness and compliance with the eligibility criteria outlined in the advertisement, the Commission shortlisted 100 candidates for further consideration for appointment as Judges of the High Court,” the notice stated.
The list highlights a blend of experienced magistrates, seasoned advocates, and public sector legal officers.
Among the serving magistrates are Lucas Onyina, Harrison Omwima Barasa, David Wanjohi Mburu, and Letizia Muthoni Wachira Rwiga.
Notable legal practitioners include former Nyeri Woman Representative Priscilla Nyokabi Kanyua, Praxedes Chepkoech Tororey, Esther Kalunde Kimilu, Peter Oduor Ooko, Martha Wanzila Mutuku, and Angela Njeri Thuku.
Other advocates, such as Henry Faraj Chipinde, Patricia Naeku Leparashao, Anne Mary Apondi Okothuyi, John Paul Mugo Kamau, Elizabeth Kathiwa Usoi, and Anne Waruhiu Nyambura, also feature on the shortlist.
Public sector legal officers are represented by Dr Andrew Barney Wanjala Khakula, Dr Nahili Mokaya Orina, and Andrew Chege Waitaira, recognised for their contributions to policy development and legal reform.
The next phase of the recruitment will involve interviews, with dates to be communicated by the commission in due course.
“The Commission will communicate the date of the interviews in due course,” the notice said.
Members of the public are invited to submit in writing any information relevant to the shortlisted candidates.
The JSC emphasised transparency and merit in the selection process, stating: “The Judicial Service Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer and selects candidates on merit through fair and open competition from the widest range of eligible candidates.”
Once completed, the process will result in the appointment of 20 new judges, aimed at boosting the High Court’s capacity and enhancing the delivery of justice across the country.
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