President Ruto's Legal Counsel Among 15 Nominees for Kenya's Court of Appeal
Nairobi, 22 January 2026
Katwa Kigen, the senior advocate who has represented President William Ruto in high-profile legal matters, has been nominated by the Judicial Service Commission for appointment as a Court of Appeal judge. The nomination follows rigorous interviews concluded on 21st January 2026 and includes former electoral commission chairman Issack Hassan among the 15 candidates. This appointment could significantly reshape Kenya’s judicial landscape, particularly given Kigen’s history representing the sitting president in various legal challenges.
JSC Selection Process and Timeline
The Judicial Service Commission concluded a rigorous and highly competitive interview process on Wednesday, 21st January 2026, marking the final stage of a comprehensive recruitment exercise [1]. The process included public advertisement of vacancies, public participation before shortlisting, live-streamed interviews and comprehensive vetting carried out in line with the Constitution of Kenya, the Judicial Service Act and applicable regulations [1]. The nominations represent a significant milestone in Kenya’s judicial appointments process, with the names of the successful nominees now forwarded to President Ruto for appointment in accordance with Article 166(1)(b) of the Constitution [1].
Notable Nominees and Their Backgrounds
Beyond Katwa Kigen and Issack Hassan, the list includes several distinguished jurists currently serving in Kenya’s High Court [1]. The nominees comprise High Court Judge Chacha Mwita, Lady Justice Hedwig Imbosa Ong’udi, Justice Mathews Nduma Nderi, Lady Justice Linnet Mumo Ndolo, Lady Justice Lucy Mwihaki Njuguna, Justice Samson Odhiambo Okongo and Lady Justice Rachel Chepkoech Ngetich [1]. Additional nominees include Justice Stephen Andersen Radido Okiyo, Brown Murungi Kairaria, Paul Lilan, Justice Munyao Sila, Johnson Okoth Okello and Justice Byram Ongaya [1]. Hassan’s nomination is particularly noteworthy given his role as chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, bringing oversight experience to the judicial bench [1].
Selection Criteria and Constitutional Compliance
The JSC stated it was guided by constitutional principles of merit, integrity, fairness, gender parity, inclusivity and regional balance in reaching its decision [1]. Candidates underwent assessment on professional competence, written and oral communication skills, integrity, sound judgement, legal and life experience, and a demonstrated commitment to public service, the rule of law and constitutionalism [1]. The nominees comprise a mix of serving High Court judges and senior advocates, reflecting what the Commission described as a balanced blend of judicial experience and legal practice [1]. This approach demonstrates the JSC’s commitment to maintaining constitutional standards whilst ensuring diverse representation within the appellate court system.
Impact on Court Capacity and Access to Justice
Upon appointment, the additional judges will increase the strength of the Court of Appeal from 27 to 42 judges, representing a substantial expansion of 55.556 per cent [1]. The Commission stated this move is intended to enhance the Court’s capacity, ease the backlog of appeals and improve access to justice through faster hearing and determination of cases [1]. The expansion reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Kenya’s judicial system and address case backlogs that have historically hampered timely justice delivery. The appointments, once confirmed by the President, will significantly bolster the appellate court’s ability to handle the increasing volume of cases flowing through Kenya’s legal system.