The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted 100 candidates for consideration as Judges of the High Court, among them former Nyeri Woman Representative Priscilla Nyokabi Kanyua.
This is part of an ongoing recruitment to fill 20 vacancies in the superior court.
In a public notice released on Thursday, October 23, 2025, the commission announced that it had received 377 applications by the close of the submission window on July 7, 2025, following an initial call for applications published on June 9.
After a detailed review to ensure compliance with the constitutional and professional requirements, 100 candidates were shortlisted for interviews that will be conducted in the coming weeks.
The list features a blend of serving magistrates, judicial officers, practicing advocates, and public service lawyers, reflecting a wide representation from across Kenya’s legal fraternity.
“Upon reviewing all submissions for completeness and compliance with the eligibility criteria outlined in the advertisement, the Commission shortlisted 100 candidates for further consideration for appointment as Judges of the High Court,” the notice stated.
Among the serving magistrates in the shortlist are 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 highlights the commission’s continued recognition of judicial officers who have served in the lower courts and are now seeking elevation to the High Court bench.
Several practicing advocates with long-standing experience in litigation and constitutional matters also feature prominently.
These include former Nyeri Woman representative, Priscilla Nyokabi, a lawyer and former legislator known for her work in governance and human rights, Henry Faraj Chipinde, Patricia Naeku Leparashao, and Anne Mary Apondi Okothuyi.
Others, such as John Paul Mugo Kamau, Elizabeth Kathiwa Usoi, and Anne Waruhiu Nyambura, represent a new generation of advocates with both courtroom and academic experience.
From the public legal sector, the list includes Dr. Andrew Barney Wanjala Khakula, a seasoned legal scholar, and Dr. Nahili Mokaya Orina, alongside Andrew Chege Waitaira, who have all contributed to public policy and legal reform.
The presence of lawyers like Delmas Lugonzo Mwiammo and Geoffrey Oluoch Yogo underscores the commission’s interest in drawing expertise from both the private and public bar.
Notably, former and current public officers are also among those shortlisted.
Nyokabi’s inclusion stands out due to her dual career in politics and law — she previously served as Nyeri Woman Representative (2013–2017) and has been active in governance, human rights, and constitutional implementation initiatives.
The commission invited members of the public to submit any written comments regarding the suitability of the shortlisted candidates before interviews commence.
“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,” JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya said in the notice.
The interviews will be announced in due course. Successful candidates will be recommended for appointment by the President in accordance with Article 166 of the Constitution.
This recruitment comes amid an increasing workload in the High Court and calls for more judges to expedite justice delivery across the country.
With only 20
positions available, the selection process is expected to be highly
competitive, marking another critical step in strengthening Kenya’s judiciary.
