The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to conduct an open, credible and interference-free process as it begins recruiting a new judge for the Supreme Court.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the legal fraternity is paying close attention to the exercise and expects the commission to uphold integrity and transparency, particularly given past challenges surrounding judicial accountability.
Odhiambo expressed hope that the vacancy at the apex court would attract highly qualified candidates capable of strengthening the country’s highest judicial body.
“The legal profession is keenly following this recruitment and looks forward to a process that delivers a deserving judge to the Supreme Court,” she said, adding that the JSC must ensure the exercise is not derailed by procedural or institutional obstacles.
The remarks come against the backdrop of long-standing concerns raised by LSK over gaps within the judiciary, including slow disciplinary mechanisms and limited resources affecting court operations nationwide.
In December 2025, the Society openly criticised a High Court decision that curtailed the JSC’s powers to investigate judges due to the lack of gazetted regulations. LSK warned that the ruling risked weakening constitutional oversight and accountability within the judiciary.
Odhiambo said the decision exposed deep institutional weaknesses and insisted that LSK would actively challenge it through appellate proceedings.
The contested ruling stemmed from a complaint lodged with the JSC against Justice Dorah Chepkwony by an advocate representing an accused person. After the commission initiated a preliminary inquiry and scheduled hearings, the judge challenged the process in court, questioning the JSC’s jurisdiction and procedures.
Meanwhile, the JSC has confirmed that the successful applicant for the Supreme Court position will serve until the mandatory retirement age of 70, with the option of early retirement at 65, as stipulated in the Constitution.
Chief Justice Martha Koome noted that the judge’s remuneration will be determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, with a gross monthly package ranging between Sh956,192 and Sh1,268,996, inclusive of benefits.
The vacancy was formally announced through a Gazette Notice, which also outlined the Supreme Court’s mandate. This includes exclusive jurisdiction over presidential election disputes and the authority to hear appeals from the Court of Appeal and other tribunals as provided for under the law.
