Isaac Rutto hails swearing in of 15 judges, says it will ease backlog of cases
By Kiprono Keileb, January 28, 2026Vice Chair of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and former Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto has praised theswearing-in of 15 new judges to the Court of Appeal, describing it as a key move to strengthen the judiciary and improve access to justice for all Kenyans.
The ceremony took place at the State House, Nairobi, in the presence of President William Ruto.
In a statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Rutto said that the expanded bench would enhance the Court’s ability to handle the growing number and complexity of appellate cases. He said the appointment marks a significant step in improving judicial efficiency.
“The appointment of 15 additional judges to the Court of Appeal is an important step in strengthening the Court’s ability to perform its core mandate as provided by law; enhancing the Court’s capacity to effectively handle the increasing number and complexity of appellate cases,” the statement read in part.
Rutto noted that with more judges, the Court could sit in more panels and hold sessions in additional locations across the country.
“With an expanded bench, the Court will be able to constitute more panels, sit more frequently and hold sessions in more stations across the country,” the statement reads.
He highlighted the impact the appointments would have on pending cases and the broader justice system, stressing the benefits for ordinary Kenyans.
“This will help clear the backlog of pending appeals, reduce delays, lower the cost of litigation for parties and ensure that all Kenyans have timely, fair and equal access to appellate justice,” he wrote.
The swearing-in ceremony at State House formally marked the beginning of service for the 15 judges, increasing the number of judges in the Court of Appeal from 27 to 42, the highest in the Court’s history.
Rutto’s comments come as the judiciary seeks to expand its capacity to address delays and strengthen public confidence in the legal system. He emphaised on the critical role the new judges will play in upholding the Constitution and delivering justice efficiently.
“At State House, Nairobi, during the swearing-in of the 15 newly appointed judges of the Court of Appeal,” he wrote.