The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has  suspended the recruitment process for 11 Court of Appeal judges. Chief Justice and Chairperson of JSC  Martha Koome stated that the decision was part of efforts to comply with the National Treasury’s directive to reduce expenditure by at least 15 per cent in the appropriated budget.

As a result, spending is now restricted to essential needs only.Koome explained that major adjustments to planned programs and activities are necessary, leading to the JSC’s decision to halt all pending recruitment, including the 11 Court of Appeal judges scheduled for Wednesday.

She highlighted that the Court of Appeal currently has 29 judges across three stations in the country, with 13,331 cases pending as of May 2024.

According to her, efforts have been made to amend the Judicature Act to increase the maximum number of judges from 30 to 70.  She however noted  that resources had to be redirected to secure the Makadara Law Courts after an incident resulting in the death of Justice Monica Kivuti.

“The Judiciary will therefore require additional resources in the FY 2024/2025 to address  the judiciary’s most urgent needs.In exercising our mandate of advising the National Government on improving efficiency in the administration of justice, the JSC will engage Parliament and the Executive with a view to enhance and secure the Judiciary and the JSC budget,” said Koome in a press statement.

In April, the JSC had shortlisted 41 candidates for the 11 positions, including 32 current judges and nine practicing lawyers.