President William Samoei Ruto has presided over the swearing-in of 37 new judges to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court, marking the largest single judicial intake in Kenya’s history.
The milestone brings the total number of judges appointed under the current administration to 98 over the past three years, a move aimed at enhancing the capacity, efficiency, and responsiveness of the Judiciary.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto underscored the significance of the appointments in advancing institutional strength and public trust.
“We have today sworn-in 37 new judges to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court, the largest single intake in our nation’s history. This milestone brings to 98 the number of judges appointed over the past three years of our administration, reflecting our unwavering commitment to strengthening the capacity and efficiency of the Judiciary.”
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He noted that the appointments go beyond fulfilling a policy pledge, positioning the Judiciary as a critical pillar for national development and democratic governance.
“In doing so, we are not only fulfilling our pledge to fortify this vital institution, but also reinforcing its role as a pillar of inclusive development and a guardian of public confidence in our democratic order.”
In addition to the national appointments, President Ruto, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), also presided over the swearing-in of 12 judges to the COMESA Court of Justice.
The newly appointed regional judges are tasked with interpreting and upholding the COMESA Treaty, a responsibility the President described as both critical and far-reaching.
“Additionally, and in my capacity as Chairperson of COMESA, I further presided over the swearing-in of 12 judges to the COMESA Court of Justice, entrusted with the solemn mandate of interpreting and upholding the COMESA Treaty.”
President Ruto emphasized the weight of responsibility that comes with judicial office, urging the judges to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
“All these appointments carry with them great authority and consequence, and with such distinction comes an equally profound responsibility to uphold integrity, accountability, and service to the people.”
He concluded by congratulating the newly sworn-in judges and encouraging them to discharge their duties with fairness and independence.
“We extend sincere congratulations to all the newly appointed judges. May you discharge your duties with fairness, independence, and the highest standards of professional excellence, ever mindful of the trust reposed in you by the nation and the region.”
The appointments are expected to ease case backlogs, improve access to justice, and strengthen judicial delivery both within Kenya and across the COMESA region.
