NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has overseen the swearing-in of 37 new judges to the High Court and the Environment and Land Court, marking the largest single intake of judges in Kenya’s history.
The ceremony signals a major push by the government to address longstanding concerns over case backlogs and delays within the Judiciary of Kenya.
According to the president, the latest appointments bring the total number of judges added during his administration to 98 over the past three years, a move he says reflects a commitment to strengthening the efficiency and capacity of the courts.
“This milestone reinforces the Judiciary’s role as a pillar of inclusive development and a guardian of public confidence in our democratic order,” Ruto said.
Tackling delays in justice
Kenya’s courts have for years struggled with a heavy caseload, with thousands of matters, particularly land disputes, taking years to conclude. The addition of judges to both the High Court and the Environment and Land Court is expected to ease pressure and accelerate the delivery of justice.
Legal experts have previously warned that delays in court processes undermine investor confidence and public trust, making judicial reform a key governance priority.
Regional role at COMESA
In a separate but related development, President Ruto, in his capacity as chairperson of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), also presided over the swearing-in of 12 judges to the COMESA Court of Justice.
The court is mandated to interpret and enforce the COMESA Treaty, playing a crucial role in resolving trade and legal disputes among member states.
Ruto urged the newly appointed judges to uphold integrity, accountability and independence in their work, warning that the authority they wield must be matched by a strong sense of responsibility.
“With such distinction comes a profound duty to serve the people with fairness and professionalism,” he said.
The mass appointments come amid broader efforts by the government to reform key institutions and improve service delivery, with the Judiciary seen as central to sustaining Kenya’s democratic and economic stability.
