CJ Koome to Swear in Justice Njoki Ndung’u and Everlyne Olwande to Judicial Service Commission
NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 9 — Chief Justice Martha Koome is set to preside Tuesday morning over the swearing-in of Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung’u and Everlyne Olwande as new members of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), a move aimed at strengthening the leadership and governance of the Judiciary.
Justice Ndung’u joins the Commission as the Supreme Court’s representative after being elected unopposed by her peers, while Olwande will represent Magistrates on the panel.
Justice Ndung’u fills the seat left vacant by the late Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, who passed away on December 17, 2025, following a prolonged illness.
The election of Justice Ndung’u was overseen by Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Returning Officer Dr. Swalhah Yusuf and conducted in accordance with the Judicial Service Act, 2011, which requires a fresh nominee to be submitted within 21 days of a vacancy arising on the Commission.
“Lady Justice Ndung’u’s election ensures continuity in Supreme Court representation at the JSC and reinforces the Judiciary’s commitment to strong institutional governance, integrity, and constitutionalism,” a statement from Chief Justice Koome’s office said.
11-Member Panel
Justice Ndung’u has served on the Supreme Court since June 2011 and is widely recognized as a leading jurist and human rights advocate, with landmark contributions in constitutional interpretation, gender justice, and the promotion of equality in Kenya.
In her expanded role at the JSC, she will also chair several key Judiciary committees, including the Judiciary Committee on Elections and the Employee Protection and Inclusion Committee, highlighting her influence in institutional governance.
The Supreme Court members who conducted the election included Chief Justice Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and Justices Smokin Wanjala, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko.
Established under Article 171(2) of the Constitution, the Judicial Service Commission comprises the Chief Justice as Chairperson, one Supreme Court Judge, one Court of Appeal Judge, one High Court Judge, one Magistrate, the Attorney General, two advocates, a nominee of the Public Service Commission, and two members of the public appointed by the President with the approval of the National Assembly.
The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary serves as Secretary to the Commission.
