NAIROBI, Kenya — Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah Okoiti has welcomed the appointment of former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi as a judge of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), describing it as an important milestone for gender inclusion and Kenya’s representation in regional judicial institutions.
Amadi was sworn in on Saturday, March 7, as a judge in the First Instance Division of the court, which serves as the judicial arm of the East African Community (EAC).
In a statement shared on social media, Omtatah said the appointment reflected progress toward strengthening women’s participation in regional governance and justice systems.
“I am pleased to note that former Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Anne Amadi, has now been sworn in as a Judge of the First Instance Division of the East African Court of Justice,” the senator said.
Motion in the Senate
Omtatah also revealed that he had previously pushed for such a nomination within Parliament.
The senator said that in July last year, he moved a motion in the Senate of Kenya urging the government to prioritise the nomination of a qualified Kenyan woman to serve as a judge at the regional court.
According to Omtatah, Amadi’s appointment aligns with Kenya’s constitutional principles, particularly those relating to equality and representation.
“This development is a positive step toward strengthening gender inclusion and ensuring that Kenya’s representation in regional judicial institutions reflects the values of our Constitution,” he said.
Regional Judicial Role
The East African Court of Justice is responsible for interpreting and applying the EAC Treaty among member states.
It handles disputes involving partner states, regional institutions, and individuals seeking interpretation of community law.
The court operates through two divisions: the First Instance Division, which hears cases at the initial stage, and the Appellate Division, which determines appeals.
Amadi joins the court at a time when the East African Community continues to deepen regional integration through legal, economic, and institutional frameworks.
Experience in Kenya’s Judiciary
Before her appointment, Amadi served as Chief Registrar of Kenya’s Judiciary, where she was responsible for overseeing administrative functions within the court system.
Her new role places her among regional judges tasked with adjudicating legal matters affecting governance, treaty interpretation, and cooperation among East African countries.
Omtatah congratulated the jurist on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to serve the region.
“Congratulations Anne Amadi on your appointment and I wish you success as you serve the people of East Africa with integrity and distinction,” he said.
The appointment marks a significant moment for Kenya’s representation in the regional court as the East African Community continues to strengthen legal institutions that underpin cooperation among member states.
