Maraga Succession: Koome joins race for CJ position

The search for a replacement to the top judicial seat is soon coming to an end, with many judges meeting the required qualifications having applied for the position.

Among those in the race to replace Justice David Maraga, is Court of Appeal Judge Martha Koome.

Judge Koome was well known for her involvement in civil society movements, before she was appointed as a judge by former President Mwai Kibaki. Koome, never stopped championing for human rights even after her appointment in 2003.

Due to her immense love towards humanity, she was gifted by the United Nations in October last year, as the UN Kenya Person of the year. The award was given to her in recognition of her contribution in advocating for children’s rights.

It is this civil action that makes many doubt her capability to inherit the much desired position in the judicial system. Her affection towards humanity, majorly children and women makes many wonder if she will still perform duties expected of her effectively.

During her interview by the JSC in 2016, as she was vying for the Deputy Chief Justice seat, she defended her past engagements in civil rights for women and children, saying that she would not favor anyone.

Koome who hails from Meru County, was born in 1960 and has a Master’s Degree in Public International Law from The University of London. She was admitted to the bar in 1987, as a High Court Advocate.

She has since served in various courts around the country, including Appellate Courts in Nyeri and Malindi, Resident Judge in Nakuru, Kitale, among others.

Martha Koome is set for her interview by the Judicial Service Commission on the 14th of April 2021, and if successful will become Kenya’s first female Chief Justice.

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