Njuri Ncheke lauds nomination of Koome as CJ

The Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders has welcomed the nomination of Martha Koome as Chief Justice.

Njuri Ncheke chair Linus Kathera said Koome was the best performer at the interview and her 33-year experience as a lawyer and judge speak a lot.

“She will steer the Judiciary in the right direction,” Kathera said.

The Judicial Service Commission said it was unanimous in the decision to nominate the Court of Appeal judge from the 10 candidates interviewed. 

President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent Koome's name to Parliament for vetting and approval. The President will formally appoint Koome once she's cleared by Parliament. 

Kathera said Koome has become a role model to many girls in Meru and the entire country as she is the first women to be chosen to lead the Judiciary.

Njuri Ncheke secretary general for programmes Washington Muthamia praised Koome's experience and record. 

“She has been involved in a lot of activism to champion human rights and empowering the girl child,” Muthamia said.

Secretary general for operations Josphat Murangiri said Koome will bring reforms to the Judiciary.

Murangiri said those who lost in the race to become Chief Justice should accept defeat and stop mudslinging Koome. He said the recruitment process was fair. 

The elders spoke to the press at Nteere Grounds, North Imenti constituency over the weekend.

Koome hails from Mwiteria village, North Imenti constituency, Meru county.

National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi has directed the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee to vet Koome and report the findings to the house on or before May 25 for debate and decision by the house.  Kangema MP Muturi Kigano chairs the committee.