Kenya endorses Judge Phoebe Okowa for full term at International Court of Justice
By Kenneth Mwenda, January 31, 2026Kenya has formally launched the candidature of Judge Phoebe Okowa for election to a full nine-year term at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), covering the 2027–2036 period.
The State Department of Foreign Affairs announced the move on Saturday, January 31, 2026, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to a strong, inclusive and rules-based international legal system.
The launch event took place in Nairobi on Friday evening, January 30, 2026, and brought together members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, judges, and representatives of international legal institutions. It followed Judge Okowa’s successful election in November 2025, when she filled a casual vacancy on the court.
Speaking during the reception, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei described Judge Okowa’s election as a major achievement for Kenya, Africa and the wider international legal community.
“Judge Okowa’s election reflects strong cross-regional confidence in her independence, expertise and familiarity with diverse legal traditions,” Sing’Oei said.
He added that her appointment to the world’s highest court was the result of decades of distinguished service in international law, both as a scholar and as a legal practitioner. He noted that she has advised governments, represented states in complex disputes and consistently defended multilateral approaches to global challenges.
Sing’Oei also thanked United Nations member states for backing Kenya’s candidature and urged continued support as the country campaigns for Judge Okowa’s election to a full term.
Okowa stresses judicial independence
In her remarks, Judge Okowa expressed appreciation to the Government of Kenya and foreign diplomatic missions for their support throughout her campaign and subsequent election.
She stressed that the work of the International Court of Justice depends on judges who uphold competence, independence and integrity.
Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in academia, advisory work and litigation, Judge Okowa underlined the role of international law in resolving complex and often sensitive disputes between states.
She said the Court remains a vital institution at a time when international norms face growing pressure and geopolitical tensions continue to rise.
Judge Okowa also spoke about representation and inclusion within international judicial bodies. She noted that her election in 2025 marked an important step towards improving gender balance and increasing African representation at the ICJ.
She said the presence of more women and jurists from the Global South strengthens the Court by bringing broader perspectives and legal traditions into its deliberations.
Judge Okowa reaffirmed her commitment to serving independently and contributing meaningfully to the court’s work if elected to a full term.
The event concluded with Kenya restating its confidence in Judge Okowa’s candidature. The government said it will continue engaging UN member states to secure the necessary support ahead of the 2027 elections.