Katwa Kigen, former President William Ruto’s lawyer and current Court of Appeal judge, is among five candidates shortlisted to replace former Supreme Court Judge Justice Mohamed Ibrahim.
The other nominees include Joseph Sergon, Anne Makori, Justice Patrick Tuiyot, and Justice Mohamed Warsame.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC), which is working to fill the vacancy left by the death of Justice Mohamed Ibrahim in December last year, confirmed that the applications were reviewed for completeness and compliance with the set requirements before the final shortlist was made.
“The shortlisted applicants have been selected strictly based on merit and adherence to the established criteria,” said the commission.
Katwa Kigen Among the Five Shortlisted for Judge Position
According to the judiciary, Katwa Kigen, Anne Makori, and Joseph Sergon are scheduled for interviews on Tuesday, April 28, while Justices Patrick Tuiyot and Mohamed Warsame are scheduled to appear on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
Also Read: Katwa Kigen Sent to Nyeri as CJ Koome Deploys Newly Recruited Court of Appeal Judges [LIST]
The shortlist was released as the JSC advances the selection process for Kenya’s Supreme Court.
Lilian Onjiku-Washira, one of the six applicants, did not make the final list.
Members of the public have also been invited to submit any relevant information regarding the shortlisted candidates in writing.
Katwa’s Quest for Judicial Post
Justice Katwa has consistently sought appointments to higher judicial offices.
On January 22, JSC named Senior Counsels Katwa Kigen and Ahmed Issack Hassan among 15 nominees selected by the commission for appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal.
According to JSC, candidates were evaluated on professional competence, written and oral communication skills, integrity, sound judgment, legal and life experience, and a demonstrable commitment to public service, the rule of law, and constitutionalism.
On February 14, Chief Justice Martha Koome assigned Justice Katwa to the regional appellate bench that handles cases from Nyeri, Embu, Laikipia, and neighboring counties.
Also Read: Katwa Kigen and Mohamed Warsame Among Kenyans Eying Supreme Court Post
To serve as a judge the in the Supreme Court of Kenya, one is expected to exercise all powers vested in a Supreme Court judge under the Constitution, the Judicial Service Act, and other applicable laws.
The tenure of office allows for retirement at 70 years, with eligibility for early retirement from 65 years.
Additionally, the gross monthly remuneration package for the position (excluding benefits) is a minimum of KSh956,192 and a maximum of KSh 1,268,996, as provided under the Salaries and Remuneration Commission guidelines.
