The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to conduct a fair, transparent and unhindered process in the recruitment of the next Supreme Court judge following the declaration of a vacancy at the apex court.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the legal fraternity is closely monitoring the recruitment exercise and expects the JSC to uphold constitutional standards and avoid challenges that have previously hindered judicial disciplinary processes.
“We look forward to seeing the applicants for the position of Judge of the Supreme Court, and are hopeful that the JSC’s recruitment mandate will not suffer the same hindrances encountered in efforts to discipline judges,” Odhiambo said in a statement on Wednesday. “May the process end with a worthy judge joining the apex court.”
Odhiambo noted that the Society is keen to see strong and qualified candidates apply for the position, stressing the importance of reinforcing public confidence in the Judiciary through credible appointments.
The remarks come amid ongoing concerns raised by the LSK over institutional gaps within the Judiciary, including delays in disciplinary proceedings and resource constraints affecting courts across the country.
In December 2025, the Society publicly disagreed with a High Court ruling that curtailed the JSC’s ability to investigate judicial officers due to the absence of gazetted regulations.
LSK described the ruling as exposing “institutional failures” and warned that it could undermine constitutional accountability. Odhiambo said the Society would take all necessary measures, including joining appellate proceedings, to challenge the decision.
The Supreme Court vacancy was formally announced by the JSC, which said the successful candidate will serve until the mandatory retirement age of 70, with an option for early retirement at 65. Chief Justice Martha Koome said remuneration will follow Salaries and Remuneration Commission guidelines, with a gross monthly package ranging from Sh956,192 to Sh1,268,996, inclusive of benefits.
A Gazette Notice outlined the Supreme Court’s mandate, including determining presidential election disputes, hearing appeals from the Court of Appeal, issuing advisory opinions, and handling matters arising from emergencies.
