The Judicial Service Commission is set to begin interviews on Wednesday to fill 20 vacant positions at the High Court of Kenya, drawing candidates from a list of 100 individuals who were shortlisted for the role.
The exercise is part of broader efforts to reinforce the judiciary and improve access to justice across the country.
In a statement released on Monday, the commission said the interviews are scheduled to start on February 4, 2026, and will involve candidates drawn from diverse legal backgrounds.
“The Judicial Service Commission will on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, commence interviews for the position of Judge of the High Court, aimed at filling 20 vacancies from a pool of 100 shortlisted candidates,” the JSC said.
The list of shortlisted candidates includes former Nyeri Woman Representative Priscilla Nyokabi, Supreme Court Registrar Letizia Wachira, as well as experienced advocates, magistrates and legal scholars.
Others expected to appear before the interview panel include Elizabeth Achieng Agutu, Naima Sheikh Ahmed, Neddie Eve Adhiambo Akello, Adelaide Amimo Akong’a, Brian Pratt Ayodo, Harrison Omwima Barasa, Joseph Kipkoech Biomdo, Emmanuel Omondi Bitta, Esther Boke, Conrad Mugoya Bosire, Gad Kipkirui Chemoryat and Henry Faraji Chipinde.
As part of measures to promote openness and public involvement, the commission said it has prepared an information booklet that explains the recruitment process and outlines how candidates will be assessed. The booklet also contains profiles of all shortlisted applicants.
“To enhance transparency, accountability and public participation, the Commission has developed an information booklet detailing the recruitment process, selection criteria and profiles of the shortlisted candidates,” the statement added.
The interviews are expected to continue until March 4, 2026.
The recruitment drive comes shortly after President William Ruto presided over the swearing-in of 15 new judges to the Court of Appeal at State House, Nairobi, on January 28, 2026.
Nine of those judges were elevated from the High Court following nominations by the Judicial Service Commission, with their appointments confirmed through a Gazette Notice dated January 27.
The appointments were intended to address an acute shortage at the Court of Appeal, which has been operating with only 27 judges against a required number of 70.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, who chairs the Judicial Service Commission, said the selection of judges is guided by merit, integrity, gender balance, inclusivity and regional representation.
She noted that candidates are evaluated based on professional ability, experience, communication skills, integrity and commitment to the Constitution.
The High Court plays a key role in Kenya’s justice system, handling constitutional, criminal, civil and commercial cases. The planned recruitment is expected to help reduce case backlogs and strengthen the delivery of justice nationwide.
