Kenya’s Judicial Service Commission Shortlists 35 Candidates for Court of Appeal Judge Positions

In a significant step towards bolstering the country’s second-highest court, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has released a list of 35 shortlisted candidates who will be interviewed for 15 vacant positions of Judge of the Court of Appeal.

The shortlist, drawn from a pool of 94 applicants, is dominated by experienced judges from various divisions of the judiciary, alongside a select group of distinguished legal scholars and seasoned advocates.

The recruitment drive, which was officially advertised on June 9, 2025, saw the application window close on July 7, 2025. After a thorough review for completeness and conformity with the constitutional and statutory requirements, the JSC finalized the list of candidates who will proceed to the next and most critical stage: the public interviews.

Prominent Names on the Shortlist

The shortlist features a host of well-known figures within Kenya’s legal landscape. Among the prominent sitting judges who have made the cut are:

· Hon. Justice (Dr) Joseph Kiplagat Sergon

· Hon. Mr. Justice William Musya Musyoka

· Hon. Mr. Justice Robert Kipkoech Limo

· Hon. Lady Justice Linnet Munno Midolo

· Hon. Mr. Justice Enock Chacha Mwita

· Hon. Lady Justice Lucy Mwuhaki Njuguna

The list also includes notable legal practitioners and academics such as Prof. Migai Akech, Mr. Ahmed Issack Hassan (former Chairman of the IEBC), and Dr. Joseph Arimba Kaberia.

Interview Date: Yet to Be Announced

A key question on the minds of the legal community and the public is the timeline for this crucial process. According to the JSC’s announcement, the date for the interviews has not yet been set.

The commission’s notice states, “The Commission will communicate the date of the interviews in due course.” This indicates that the shortlisted candidates and the public will be informed of the interview schedule at a later date, following the completion of the public participation phase.

Call for Public Participation

In line with its mandate for transparency and public accountability, the JSC has invited Kenyans to participate in the vetting process. Members of the public are encouraged to avail any credible information of interest regarding the character, integrity, or professional conduct of any of the 35 shortlisted candidates.

Such information must be submitted in writing to:

The Secretary, Judicial Service Commission, P.O. Box 40048 – 00100, Nairobi. Email: recruitment@jsc.g

The upcoming interviews are expected to be closely watched, as the outcome will shape the leadership and jurisprudence of the Court of Appeal for years to come. The successful candidates will be tasked with handling some of the country’s most complex and consequential appeals.