President William Ruto on Wednesday morning presided over the swearing-in of 15 newly appointed Court of Appeal judges, a move expected to strengthen Kenya’s judicial capacity amid a growing backlog of cases.
Speaking during the ceremony, the President congratulated the judges on their appointment and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, pledging that the government will always obey court orders.
However, President Ruto raised concerns over some judicial decisions that have stalled government policies, saying that while judicial independence must be respected, there is a need for candid engagement on rulings that affect the implementation of the government’s agenda.
“We need to speak honestly and candidly about the consequences such decisions have on the lives and livelihoods of Kenyans,” the President said.
He noted that despite progress made in strengthening the Judiciary, judicial capacity has not kept pace with the rising number of cases filed across the country. He said the appointment of the additional judges is part of broader efforts to enhance efficiency and reduce case backlogs.
President Ruto also revealed that he intends to seek judicial interpretation on the place of political party manifestos, questioning their legal status in policy implementation.
“Help me understand the place of a policy document called a manifesto,” he said.
The Head of State urged Kenyans to move away from personality-driven politics and instead focus on institutions, the law, and the broader interests of the country.
He further assured judicial officers that their welfare and security would be prioritized as the Judicial Officers’ Retirement Benefits Bill would be considered and dispensed with within the current financial year.
Ruto appointed the 15 judges through a gazette notice on Tuesday, following the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) ‘s recommendation.
Among those appointed are Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan and senior advocate Katwa Kigen, who has previously represented President Ruto, alongside serving High Court judges and senior legal practitioners.
Others are 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.
The newly sworn-in judges are expected to support the Court of Appeal, which has faced mounting pressure from an increase in constitutional petitions, election-related disputes, and complex commercial cases.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the Judiciary, and representatives of the legal fraternity.
