Justice Warsame's Supreme Court Nod Ignites Legal Circles
The Judicial Service Commission has nominated Court of Appeal Judge Mohamed Warsame for a Supreme Court position, following a rigorous interview process. Justice Warsame is set to replace Justice Mohamed Ibrahim, with his appointment awaiting formal approval from President William Ruto. Chief Justice Martha Koome praised his competence and commitment to the rule of law.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has formally nominated Court of Appeal Judge Mohamed Warsame for appointment to the Supreme Court of Kenya. This nomination follows comprehensive interviews where Justice Warsame, 58, emerged as the top candidate. His name has been forwarded to President William Ruto by Chief Justice Martha Koome, who also chairs the JSC, for the official appointment process in accordance with Article 166(1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
If his appointment is confirmed, Justice Warsame will fill the vacancy left by Justice Mohamed Ibrahim, who passed away on December 17, 2025. Justice Warsame is expected to serve at the apex court for 12 years, until he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 70.
Chief Justice Koome lauded Justice Warsame's qualifications, highlighting his demonstrated professional competence, profound legal knowledge, and a genuine and unwavering commitment to the rule of law and public service. She emphasized that his extensive life experience makes him exceptionally well-suited to significantly contribute to the evolution of Kenya's jurisprudence at the highest judicial level. The announcement was made with CJ Koome flanked by all ten members of the JSC, along with the commission's secretary and Judiciary Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya. The commission members include JSC vice chairperson Isaac Rutto, Justices Njoki Ndung'u, Fatuma Sichale and Antony Mrima, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Evelyn Olwande, Omwanza Ombari, Jacquiline Ingutia, Charity Kisotu and Caroline Nzilani.
In a related development, CJ Koome announced that the Judicial Service Commission plans to publish the performances of judicial officers for public scrutiny starting from July 1, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability to the Kenyan people, who are both the ultimate consumers and financiers of justice. Koome underscored that performance measurement of Judges and Judicial Officers is a critical accountability mechanism necessary to reinforce public confidence while simultaneously upholding judicial independence.