Joseph Kipkoech’s nomination to the High Court bench on April 10 marks a remarkable transition from his role as a senior officer in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), where he served at the rank of Colonel.
Two months ago, while facing the Judicial Service Commission interviewing panel, Colonel Kipkoech outlined his extensive legal and military background, citing over 18 years of experience in law practice, litigation, and military legal service.
In response to a daring question about why he wanted to leave such a high rank in KDF, he said his decision to transition was driven by his desire to pursue judicial service and that he had developed a long-standing interest in the judiciary.
He explained that his passion for law was further strengthened during his postgraduate studies.
Joseph Kipkoech, High Court Judge Nominee
Kipkoech indicated that his career in the military legal system had exposed him to both prosecution and defense roles in court-martial proceedings, as well as to senior advisory responsibilities within the Ministry of Defense.
He added that this experience had equipped him with the competence and exposure necessary for judicial work.
Responding to questions from the panel, he confirmed that he had made a firm decision to leave military service and stated that he was prepared for the transition to the judiciary.
Educational Background
He holds a Master of Laws, obtained in 2016, and a Bachelor of Laws, obtained in 2006, both from the University of Nairobi.
Additionally, he holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, obtained in 2006, and was admitted to the Roll of Advocates in 2007.
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Career Background
Joseph Kipkoech Biemdo is a Colonel serving in the Legal Services and Defense Court Martial Administration under the Ministry of Defense.
In his professional career, Biemdo has served in various legal and security-related roles.
Since 2024, he has been serving as the Colonel, Legal Services and Defense Court Martial Administrator, at the Ministry of Defense.
In 2023, he worked as an International Observer under the East African Community Monitoring and Verification Mechanism.
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Between 2020 and 2022, he served as Director of Legal Services at the Nairobi Metropolitan Services.
Prior to that, he served as Senior Legal Officer at the Ministry of Defense from 2018 to 2020. He also held the position of Head of Legal and International Observer under the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism between 2017 and 2018.
Earlier, he served as Deputy Force Legal Advisor with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan from 2016 to 2017, and as a Legal Officer with the Kenya Defence Forces between 2009 and 2016.
Kipkoech’s legal career began in private practice as Litigation Counsel at Anambo & Co. Advocates from 2007 to 2009.
