By Peter Ochieng
The highly anticipated interviews for Court of Appeal judges have been postponed.
Interviews for the 41 candidates were scheduled to run from June 03 to June 20, 2024. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has given new dates, with the interviews now expected to be conducted between June 18 and July 09, 2024.
“The Judicial Service Commission wishes to bring to the attention of members of the public changes in the interview dates for candidates shortlisted for the position of judge of the Court of Appeal. The interviews will now be conducted between 18. June and 9. July 2024. A detailed schedule of new dates can be accessed on the JSC website,” JSC announced in a public statement.
However, the Chief Justice Martha Karambu Koome led JSC did not disclose the reason behind the postponement.
Of the shortlisted, 32 are currently serving as judges while nine are practicing lawyers. Candidates were asked to arrive at the venue 30 minutes before the interview time.
Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Ahmed Issack Hassan is among the 41 shortlists. The immediate former IEBC Chairman, Wafula Chebukati applied for the position but was not shortlisted.
“They should carry their original certificates, testimonials and clearances and should ensure they are returned to them before leaving the interview venue,” added JSC.
The 41 candidates will be vying for 11 slots available. On February 09, 2024, JSC announced vacancies in the 11 positions and invited qualified candidates to apply.
According to JSC, the recruitment of the judges is aimed at enhancing access to justice. Only two weeks ago, President William Ruto presided over the swearing-in of an additional 20 High Court judges as recommended by JSC.
Speaking during a courtesy call on Uasin Gishu governor Jonathan Bii on Thursday, Koome said Eldoret will get a permanent Court of Appeal station, once the interviews are done.
She said the Judiciary would also post an additional judge to the Eldoret High Court. “The Judiciary has also gazetted courts in Moiben, Turbo, Chepkorio and Soi to deepen access to justice,” she added.
The visit came ahead of the launch of the court in Moiben and an alternative justice systems suite.