Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u has been elected unopposed as the Supreme Court representative to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), taking over the position previously held by the late Justice Mohammed Ibrahim. Her election secures continuity in the Supreme Court’s voice within the JSC at a delicate moment for the Judiciary following Justice Ibrahim’s passing in December 2025.
Election to the JSC
Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u was chosen by her colleagues on the Supreme Court in an election conducted in accordance with the Judicial Service Act, 2011, which requires that a new nominee be presented within 21 days of a vacancy arising in the Commission. The poll was presided over by Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Returning Officer Dr Swalhah Yusuf, underscoring the transparency and formality attached to judicial representation at the JSC.
By being elected unopposed, Justice Ndung’u assumes the role as the sole representative of the Supreme Court at the JSC, reflecting the confidence of her peers in her integrity, experience, and commitment to institutional reform. Her new mandate places her at the heart of decisions on judicial appointments, discipline, and policy that shape the entire Judiciary.
Replacing the late Justice Mohammed Ibrahim
Justice Ndung’u steps into a position left vacant by the late Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, who died on 17 December 2025 after a prolonged illness. Until his death, Justice Ibrahim served both as a Judge of the Supreme Court and as a Commissioner at the JSC, making him a central figure in judicial governance and reforms under the 2010 Constitution.
Justice Ibrahim is remembered for a distinguished career in legal advocacy, judicial reform, and constitutional governance, with a legacy that includes strengthening the rule of law and access to justice in Kenya. Justice Ndung’u’s election is therefore not only a procedural replacement but also a symbolic continuation of the values of independence, accountability, and service that he embodied.
Profile of Justice Njoki Ndung’u
Appointed to the Supreme Court in June 2011, Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u has built a strong reputation as a leading jurist, human rights advocate, and expert in constitutional interpretation. She is especially known for her jurisprudence on gender justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights within the framework of the 2010 Constitution.
Beyond her role on the bench, Justice Ndung’u chairs influential committees within the Judiciary, including the Judiciary Committee on Elections and the Employee Protection and Inclusion Committee. Through these roles, she has helped shape electoral dispute resolution mechanisms and promoted safe, inclusive working environments for judicial staff.
Mandate and importance of the JSC
The Judicial Service Commission is the constitutional organ charged with promoting and safeguarding the independence and accountability of the Judiciary in Kenya. Established under Article 171 of the Constitution, it is responsible for advising on the appointment, discipline, and terms of service of judges and judicial officers, as well as improving the administration of justice.
The Commission’s membership brings together the Chief Justice as Chairperson, a Supreme Court judge, a Court of Appeal judge, a High Court judge and a magistrate, the Attorney General, two advocates, a representative of the Public Service Commission, and two lay members appointed by the President with parliamentary approval, with the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary serving as Secretary. Justice Ndung’u, as the Supreme Court representative, will therefore play a pivotal role in ensuring that the court’s constitutional vision is reflected in the Commission’s work.
Pledge to uphold rule of law and justice
In her acceptance remarks, Justice Njoki Ndung’u pledged to uphold the rule of law, strengthen institutional accountability, and deepen access to justice for all Kenyans. She also affirmed her commitment to defending the independence of both the Judiciary and the JSC, recognising that an autonomous and credible justice system is essential for democracy and social transformation.
Chief Justice Martha Koome congratulated Justice Ndung’u on her election, expressing full confidence in her dedication and integrity and highlighting the expectation that she will contribute significantly to realising social transformation through access to justice. The Chief Justice further called on Kenyans to take an active role in championing justice, particularly for vulnerable members of society, underlining that public participation and vigilance remain vital complements to institutional reforms.
