JSC declares vacancy in office of Judge of the Supreme Court
By Joel Masibo, January 14, 2026The Judiciary has officially declared a vacancy in the Office of Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya, opening the door for qualified legal professionals to apply for one of the country’s highest judicial positions.
This comes shortly after the Judiciary of Kenya has confirmed the unopposed election of Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu to the Judicial Service Commission to replace the late Justice Mohammed Ibrahim.
The announcement is published in a Special Issue of the Kenya Gazette dated Tuesday, January 13, 2026, under Gazette Notice No. 380, pursuant to the Judicial Service Act (Cap. 8A). Chief Justice Martha Koome, acting on behalf of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), confirmed that one position is available.
Position details
The vacant post is titled Judge of the Supreme Court, with one slot to be filled. Successful candidates will serve until the mandatory retirement age of 70 years, although early retirement is permitted upon attaining the age of 65, in accordance with Article 167(1) of the Constitution.
Salary and benefits
According to the gazette notice, remuneration will be guided by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). The gross monthly remuneration package, excluding benefits, ranges between:
Minimum: Ksh956,192
Maximum: Ksh1,268,996
Key responsibilities
A judge appointed to the Supreme Court will serve in the country’s apex court and exercise jurisdiction as provided under Articles 163, 4, 5, 6, 168(8) and 58(5) of the Constitution.
Key functions include hearing and determining disputes relating to presidential election results under Article 140. Determining appeals from the Court of Appeal and other courts or tribunals as prescribed by law.
Giving advisory opinions at the request of the National Government, state organs or county governments on matters concerning county governments. Hearing appeals from judges aggrieved by tribunal decisions formed under Article 168 regarding removal from office.
Considering applications arising from declarations of a state of emergency.
Minimum qualifications
Applicants must meet the constitutional threshold set out in Article 166(2) and (3) of the Constitution, including holding a law degree from a recognised university, or being an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, or possessing an equivalent qualification from a Commonwealth jurisdiction.
Having at least 15 years’ experience as: A superior court judge, or
a distinguished academic, judicial officer, legal practitioner or other relevant legal professional; or a combination of the above totalling 15 years.
Candidates must also demonstrate high moral character, integrity and impartiality, as required under Chapter Six of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity.
In addition, applicants should possess strong professional competence, good communication skills, fairness, sound judgment, broad legal and life experience, and a commitment to public and community service.
Interested and qualified persons are required to submit their applications through the Judicial Service Commission’s online portal.