Uhuru Has No Authority Rejecting JSC Nominations

The Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association has come out, guns blazing to condemn President Uhuru Kenyatta for violating the Constitution by rejecting 6 judges of the 40 forwarded to him by the Judicial Service Commission for the appointment.

“In a shocking turn of events, the President declined to appoint six of the judges nominated by the JSC. All six are currently serving on the bench,” said the Association.

On June 3, 2021, President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed 34 out 41 judges for superior courts but declined to appoint Justices Aggrey Muchelule, George Odunga, Weldon Korir, and Prof Joel Ngugi who were to join the Court of Appeal.

“The continued delay to appoint the persons recommended for the appointment as judges of the respectful courts was and still remains a violation of Articles 2(1), 3(1), 10, 73 (1)(a), 166(1), 172(1) and 249(2) of the Constitution,” the Association added.

Read More: Martha Koome Becomes First Woman Chief Justice Of Kenya

Justices Msagha Mbogholi, Omondi Hellen Amollo, Mumbi Ngugi, Francis Tuiyott, Nyamweya Pauline Nyaboke, Jessie Lesiit, and Laibuta Imaana are among the seven who were appointed to the Appeal Court. Kenyans have condemned the Son of Jomo.

Justices Baari Christine Noontatua, Gakeri Jacob Kariuki, Keli Jemima Wanza, Mwaure Ann Ngibuini, Matanga Bernard Odongo Manani, Rutto Stella Chemtai, Kebira Ocharo, Kitiku Agnes Mueni-Nzei, Nderitu David Njagi, have been appointed to be Judges of the Employment and Labour Relations Court

Meanwhile, Justices Mboya Oguttu Joseph, Naikuni Lucas Leperes, Mwanyale Michael Ngolo, Addraya Edda Dena, Kimani Lilian Gathoni, Kamau Joseph Mugo, Wabwoto Karoph Edward, Koross Anne Yatich Kipingor, Gicheru Maxwell Nduiga, Mogeni Ann Jacqueline Akhalemesi, Ongarora Fred Nyagaka, Christopher Kyania Nzili, Mugo David Mwangi, Omollo Lynette Achieng’, Washe Emmanuel Mutwana, Nyukuri Annet, Murigi Theresa Wairimu, Asati Esther, to be Judges of the Environment and Land Court.

Read More: The List Of Shortlisted Candidates For The Position Of Chief Justice

But will the President listen?