Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u has been elected unopposed to represent the Supreme Court at the Judicial Service Commission, filling the seat left vacant following the death of Justice Mohammed Ibrahim.
The election was overseen by Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Returning Officer Dr. Swalhah Yusuf, OGW, and conducted in accordance with the Judicial Service Act, 2011.
The law requires the Supreme Court to submit a new representative to the Commission within 21 days whenever a vacancy arises.
In a statement issued on Friday, the office of the Chief Justice said the development was important for the stability of judicial leadership.
“Lady Justice Ndungu’s election ensures continuity in Supreme Court representation at the JSC and reinforces the Judiciary’s commitment to strong institutional governance, integrity, and constitutionalism,” Chief Justice Martha Koome’s office said.
Justice Ndung’u takes over from Justice Ibrahim, who died on December 17, 2025, after a long illness. At the time of his passing, he was serving both as a Supreme Court Judge and as a Commissioner at the JSC, positions that placed him at the heart of judicial administration and oversight.
Justice Ibrahim was widely recognised for his long service in the legal field, his role in judicial reforms, and his contribution to strengthening constitutional governance under the 2010 Constitution. His work left a lasting mark on Kenya’s justice system.
Justice Ndung’u has served as a judge of the Supreme Court since June 2011 and is known for her strong record in constitutional interpretation and the protection of rights. Over the years, she has delivered notable decisions touching on equality, gender justice, and access to justice.
Beyond her new role at the JSC, she currently chairs several important Judiciary committees, including the Judiciary Committee on Elections and the Employee Protection and Inclusion Committee. These roles have placed her at the centre of internal governance and policy direction within the Judiciary.
The election was carried out by Supreme Court judges, among them Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and Justices Smokin Wanjala, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko.
The Judicial Service Commission is established under Article 171(2) of the Constitution and is responsible for the administration and oversight of the Judiciary. Its membership brings together representatives from different arms of the justice system and the public.
The Commission is chaired by the Chief Justice and includes a Supreme Court Judge, a Court of Appeal Judge, a High Court Judge, and a magistrate. Other members are the Attorney General, two advocates, a nominee of the Public Service Commission, and two members appointed by the President with approval from the National Assembly to represent the public. The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary serves as the Commission’s Secretary.
In her acceptance speech, Justice Ndung’u committed herself to protecting the rule of law, improving accountability, expanding access to justice, and defending the independence of both the Judiciary and the JSC.
Chief Justice Koome congratulated her on the election, noting her long-standing commitment to justice. She also called on Kenyans to support the work of the Judiciary and to stand up for justice, especially for vulnerable members of society.
