Fifteen judges of the Court of Appeal have been formally sworn into office at State House, Nairobi, in a ceremony presided over by President William Ruto, marking a significant moment for Kenya’s judiciary and the administration of justice.
The swearing-in comes at a time when the Court of Appeal is under increasing pressure due to a growing backlog of cases and rising public demand for timely, fair, and efficient justice. By appointing additional judges, the government aims to strengthen the capacity of the appellate court, improve case turnaround times, and enhance access to justice for Kenyans.
During the ceremony, President Ruto emphasized the critical role the judiciary plays in upholding the Constitution, protecting the rule of law, and safeguarding democratic governance. He urged the newly sworn-in judges to discharge their duties with integrity, independence, and courage, reminding them that public confidence in the justice system depends on fairness, impartiality, and adherence to the law.
The judges took their oaths of office and allegiance, committing themselves to serve the people of Kenya faithfully and without fear or favor. The event was attended by senior government officials, members of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), judges from various courts, and other invited guests.
The expansion of the Court of Appeal bench is expected to ease congestion in the justice system, particularly in complex constitutional, electoral, commercial, and criminal appeals. Legal experts have welcomed the move, noting that a well-resourced judiciary is essential for economic stability, investor confidence, and social justice.
As the newly appointed judges assume their roles, expectations remain high that the strengthened Court of Appeal will deliver judgments more efficiently while upholding judicial independence and the principles enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution.