The Cabinet has approved the Judges Retirement Benefits Bill, 2025, a proposed legislation that creates a dedicated pension framework for judges of the superior courts.
This will replace the current provisions under the general Pensions Act.
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The Bill introduces a introduces a Defined Benefit system for serving judges and a Defined Contribution system for new appointees, ensuring financial security, protecting judicial independence, and aligning with broader public sector pension reforms.
It also offers enhanced retirement benefits, including monthly pensions, gratuities, medical coverage, and diplomatic privileges for retired judges and their spouses.
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“In a demonstration of its commitment to enhancing governance, strengthening judicial independence, and attracting the most qualified legal professionals, the Cabinet endorsed the Judges Retirement Benefits Bill, 2025,” read the dispatch in part.
Cabinet Approves Judges Retirement Benefits Bill 2025
The Bill establishes a dedicated pension and retirement benefits framework for judges of the superior courts, moving them away from the general Pensions Act and recognising the unique demands of judicial service.
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The new law provides for enhanced retirement benefits, including monthly pensions, gratuities, medical coverage, and diplomatic privileges for retired judges and their spouses.
This allows them to retire with dignity after decades of service under strict ethical standards.
Historically, the Judiciary operated as a component of the civil service, functioning under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General’s Chambers.
However, significant reforms in 1993 led to the separation of the Judiciary from the civil service, aiming to bolster financial autonomy and recognize the distinct professional environment in which judges operate.
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CJ Koome Backs Stand-Alone Pension Law for Judges, Citing 30-Year Legislative Delay
According to Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome, since the delinking, several initiatives have been undertaken to establish a separate pension scheme for judges.
However, despite these efforts, the lack of legislative backing has hindered progress over the past 30 years.
“It is notable that other civil servants have transitioned to the Public Service Superannuation Scheme, but judges are the only State/public officers remaining under the Pension Act of 1946,” Koome said in the past.
“Judges have the longest tenure of all State and public officers, given their retirement age of 70 years. In order to ensure that the position of judge retains esteem and continues to attract the most meritorious members of the legal profession, the pension benefits for judges must be responsive to the unique nature of their work,” she added.
According to Koome, a comparative study conducted by the Taskforce across Commonwealth countries revealed a widespread recognition of the need for a stand-alone pension statute that specifically addresses the unique service conditions of judges.
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