Kenya’s Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted 100 candidates for appointment as Judges of the High Court.
Among the shortlisted people is former Nyeri Woman Representative Priscilla Nyokabi Kanyua. The recruitment is meant to fill 20 vacant positions in the superior court.
In a notice released on Thursday, October 23, 2025, the commission said it received 377 applications before the deadline on July 7, following an earlier call for applications made on June 9.
After going through the applications to ensure they met the required constitutional and professional standards, 100 names made it to the shortlist. The interviews will take place in the coming weeks.
The list features a mix of serving magistrates, practicing lawyers, and public service legal officers, representing different branches of Kenya’s legal community.
“Upon reviewing all submissions for completeness and compliance with the eligibility criteria outlined in the advertisement, the Commission shortlisted 100 candidates for further consideration,” the JSC said in the notice.
Some of the serving magistrates who made the cut include Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, Esther Boke, David Wanjohi Mbiru, Harrison Onwimba Barasa, Nathan Shiundu Lutta, Letizia Muthoni Wachira Rwiga, and Alex Kimanzi Ithuku. Their inclusion reflects the JSC’s growing recognition of judicial officers seeking promotion to the High Court bench.
Among practicing advocates, the list features several familiar names such as Priscilla Nyokabi, known for her work in governance and human rights, Henry Faraj Chipinde, Patricia Naeku Leparashao, and Anne Mary Apondi Okothuyi.
The list also includes younger lawyers like John Paul Mugo Kamau, Elizabeth Kathiwa Usoi, and Anne Waruhiu Nyambura, who blend courtroom and academic experience.
From the public service, the shortlist includes Dr. Andrew Barney Wanjala Khakula, Dr. Nahili Mokaya Orina, and Andrew Chege Waitaira, all recognized for their roles in public policy and legal reform.
Other names such as Delmas Lugonzo Mwiammo and Geoffrey Oluoch Yogo point to the commission’s efforts to balance talent from both the private and public bar.
Nyokabi’s inclusion has attracted attention because of her dual background in politics and law. She served as Nyeri Woman Representative between 2013 and 2017 and has remained active in governance and human rights work.
The JSC has asked members of the public to submit any written comments on the shortlisted candidates before interviews begin.
“Take note that the commission may interview any member of the public who has submitted information on any of the shortlisted candidates, and such information shall be kept confidential,” said JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya.
The interview schedule will be announced soon. Those who make it through will be recommended for appointment by the President, as outlined under Article 166 of the Constitution.
The recruitment comes amid a heavy workload in the High Court and growing calls for more judges to speed up delivery of justice across the country. With only 20 slots available, the competition is expected to be stiff.
