JSC shortlists 50 candidates for Environment and Land Court judge positions

JSC shortlists 50 candidates for Environment and Land Court judge positions

The specialised court has become essential in resolving long-running disputes over land and promoting sustainable environmental management across Kenya.

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has revealed a shortlist of 50 candidates vying for appointment as judges of the Environment and Land Court (ELC), marking another step in its efforts to strengthen the country’s judicial capacity in handling land and environmental disputes.

According to a statement released Friday evening, the Commission launched the recruitment drive on June 9, 2025, announcing 10 openings and calling on qualified legal professionals to apply.

By the close of the application window on July 7, 2025, a total of 243 applications had been received and subjected to an intensive review process to confirm compliance with the set criteria.

“Following a review for completeness and compliance with the criteria outlined in the advertisement, the Commission shortlisted 50 candidates for consideration for appointment as Judges of the Environment and Land Court,” said JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya.

Those shortlisted include magistrates, advocates, registrars, and lecturers with diverse experience in the legal sector.

Among them are Juliet Chepkoech Busienei, Patrick Blasius Owiny, Daniel Musyoka Ngalu, and Ben Mark Ekhubi, who previously made headlines for showing compassion to a suspect in his courtroom.

Other candidates in the pool include Brenda Adhiambo Oduor, Ada Mildred Obura, Caroline Kenda Obara, Hellena Manyara Onkwani, and Paul Kipkemoi Tonui.

The JSC noted that the selection reflects an effort to combine broad legal practice with long-standing courtroom expertise.

The Environment and Land Court was established under Article 162(2)(b) of the Constitution to deal with cases on land ownership, use, environmental protection, and property rights.

The specialised court has become essential in resolving long-running disputes over land and promoting sustainable environmental management across Kenya.

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