CJ Koome Announces Vacancy of Supreme Court Judge

The Judiciary has declared a vacancy in the Supreme Court of Kenya following the death of sitting judge Justice Mohamed Ibrahim, who passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 69. Justice Ibrahim was also due for retirement.

In a special issue of the Kenya Gazette published on January 13, 2026, Chief Justice Martha Koome, on behalf of the Judiciary, formally announced the vacancy in accordance with the Judicial Service Act.

“Pursuant to Paragraph 3, Part II, First Schedule of the Judicial Service Act, I, Martha Karambu Koome, Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya, for and on behalf of the Judiciary of Kenya, declare a vacancy in the Office of Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya,” read the notice.

Martha Koome Declares Vacancy Within Supreme Court

According to the gazette notice, the vacancy is for one position at the Supreme Court, the country’s highest judicial organ. A judge appointed to the court will serve until attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years, with the option of early retirement after reaching 65 years, in line with Article 167 of the Constitution.

The remuneration for the position, excluding benefits, ranges between Sh956,392 and Sh1,268,996 per month, as guided by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

Also Read: Supreme Court Judge Ibrahim Mohammed Is Dead

The Supreme Court judge will serve in accordance with the court’s constitutional mandate as outlined under Articles 163 and 168 of the Constitution. The new judge will join a bench with immense constitutional responsibility.

The Supreme Court holds exclusive original jurisdiction to hear and determine disputes regarding presidential elections. Its duties also include hearing appeals from the Court of Appeal, providing advisory opinions to the National Government or State organs, and considering applications following a declaration of a state of emergency.

The court also hears appeals arising from tribunals formed under Article 168 of the Constitution and considers applications relating to the interpretation of constitutional provisions.

Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants seeking appointment must meet the minimum qualifications set out under Article 166(2) and (3) of the Constitution.

These include holding a law degree, qualification as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, or an equivalent qualification from a common-law jurisdiction, and possessing at least 15 years’ experience as a distinguished academic, judicial officer, legal practitioner, or in other relevant legal practice.

Also Read: CJ Koome to Admit Record 920 Lawyers to the Roll of Advocates

Candidates must also demonstrate high moral character, integrity, impartiality, and professional competence, as required under Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity.

The appointment process will be conducted in accordance with Article 166(1) of the Constitution and the provisions of the Judicial Service Act, with interested and qualified applicants invited to apply.

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A collage of Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim. PHOTO/ Judiciary