Magistrates, Kadhis to elect new JSC representative as Thika’s Atambo promises transformative leadership

Hon. Stella Atambo, the Chief Magistrate and Head of Station at Thika Law Courts/HANDOUT

Magistrates and Kadhis will tomorrow, October 18, 2025 head to the polls to elect their new representative to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), a powerful body mandated to oversee the recruitment, discipline, and welfare of judicial officers.

The JSC representative for magistrates and Kadhis plays a crucial role in advocating for their welfare, ensuring fair promotions, transfers, and disciplinary processes, and strengthening communication between the Judiciary’s leadership and officers on the ground.

The position is currently held by Commissioner Everlyne Olwande, whose term is coming to an end.

Among the leading contenders for the seat is Hon. Stella Atambo, the Chief Magistrate and Head of Station at Thika Law Courts, who has anchored her campaign on integrity, inclusivity, and servant leadership.

With over two decades of distinguished service, Hon. Atambo is widely respected within the Judiciary for her fairness, diligence, and mentorship of young officers. 

She currently presides in Court No. 1 at Thika Law Courts and sits on several influential boards shaping the administration of justice.

Hon. Stella Atambo, the Chief Magistrate and Head of Station at Thika Law Courts/HANDOUT

The responsibilities, she says, have honed her understanding of both the administrative and human aspects of judicial service.

A Chartered and Certified Professional Mediator, Hon. Atambo has been a vocal advocate for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, which she believes are key to restoring efficiency and trust in the courts. 

“Justice must not only be done but also be seen to be fair, swift, and humane,” she said, emphasizing her belief in people centered justice.

In her campaign, she has pledged to prioritise the welfare, dignity, and professional growth of magistrates and Kadhis, committing to transparent promotions, fair transfers, and improved working conditions.

“My goal is to ensure that every magistrate and Kadhi serves in an environment that values their contribution, safeguards their dignity, and supports their growth,” she said.

She also vowed to enhance engagement between the JSC and judicial officers across the country, ensuring their issues are addressed effectively and inclusively. 

“We need a JSC that listens and acts one that is empathetic, transparent, and responsive to the realities of those serving on the ground,” she added.

Atambo, who currently serves in the Mt. Kenya region, is seen as a strong candidate with wide networks across the Judiciary. 

Her bid has drawn attention for its focus on unity, accountability, and transformative service.

“I am not seeking the seat for prestige or power, but to be a voice of reason and a bridge between the JSC and judicial officers who tirelessly uphold justice across the country,” she said.

If elected, Hon. Atambo promised to bring steady leadership, grounded experience, and a genuine commitment to making the Judiciary more transparent, responsive, and people-centered.