by Daniel Nyaga
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has unanimously nominated Justice Martha Koome for the position of Chief Justice. Koome’s name was forwarded to President Uhuru Kenyatta for appointment.
In a statement released today, the JSC said that the decision came after “lengthy deliberations” and “careful consideration” of the performance of various candidates.
“…the JSC has unanimously recommended the appointment of Hon Koome Martha Karabu as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya and has submitted her name to the President for appointment.”
Justice Koome appeared before a ten-member panel consisting of Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Justice Mohamed Warsame, Justice David Majanja, and others.
She cited her wealth of experience locally, regionally, and internationally to solve Kenyan courts’ problems and boasts 33 years of an illustrious career in private and public service.
In pursuit of this position, Justice Martha faced competition from Said Juma Chitembwe, Prof. Patricia Mbote, Philip Murgor, Lawyer Fredrick Ngatia, Justice Marete Njagi, Justice Matthews Nduma Nderi, Justice William Ouko, Prof. Moni Wekesa and Ms. Alice Yano.
If appointed, Justice Koome will be Kenya’s first female Chief Justice.