Profile of Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung’u: Kenya’s ICC Candidate in Race for Judge Position

Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung’u, born January 1, 1966, serves as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya. She is also a member of the Judicial Service Commission. In addition, Kenya has nominated her as its candidate for Judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

She assumed office as a Supreme Court Judge on August 26, 2011. Since then, she has accumulated over thirty-five years of legal experience across national, regional, and international levels.

Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Nairobi. In addition, she earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Human Rights and Civil Liberties from the University of Leicester. She also obtained a Diploma in Women’s Human Rights from World University Services, Austria. Furthermore, she is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb).

The nomination for the International Criminal Court (ICC) has received strong backing from the Kenyan government. During the official launch, President William Ruto confirmed Kenya’s support for her.

“On behalf of the government of Kenya, you have our endorsement, support and we are going to campaign for you. I knew she (Njoki Ndung’u) was good but now I can confirm that she’s the best. She has lived what I believe in, that leadership and any leader must be judged by their track record and vision,” President William Ruto confirmed her backing during the launch.

In response, Justice Ndung’u thanked President William Ruto for his support and endorsement of her candidature.

“I accept this endorsement with humility and gratitude. I am proud to do so as a Kenyan who has dedicated her professional life to the service of justice, the rule of law and the protection of human dignity,” she said

“I am grateful to President William Ruto for his decisive leadership in advancing my candidature and personally introducing me to more presidents than I am sure I will ever meet, in order to secure support ahead of the ICC election in December,” she added.

Constitutional and Legislative Contribution

Justice Ndung’u has played a central role in Kenya’s constitutional development. She served on the Committee of Experts that drafted the Constitution of Kenya 2010. Before that, she worked as a Member of the 9th Parliament.

While in Parliament, she led key legal reforms. She became the principal architect of the Sexual Offences Act 2006. She also championed reforms on maternity and paternity leave. In addition, she pushed for stronger workplace protections and affirmative action in political participation.

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Public Service and International Experience

Her career also extends beyond Parliament. She worked with the African Union as a Political Analyst in Conflict Management. She also served with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as a National Protection Officer.

Earlier, she worked as State Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General. She also served as a Programme Officer at the Institute for Education in Democracy. Through these roles, she gained broad experience in governance and human rights work.

Judicial Leadership

Within the judiciary, she plays a key leadership role. She oversees the governance and regulatory affairs of the Supreme Court. This role focuses on court rules, regulations, and administrative systems. It also ensures efficiency and consistency in judicial operations.

Since January 2026, she has also served on the Judicial Service Commission. Supreme Court Judges elected her under Article 171(2)(b) of the Constitution.

Also Read: Profile of Justice Mohamed Warsame: Education Background, Career, Family, and Net Worth

Awards and Recognition

Her work has earned national and international recognition. She received the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS). She also received the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS).

Internationally, she received the UN Person of the Year in Kenya award in 2006. She also won the International Commission of Jurists – Jurist of the Year Award in the same year.

Community Engagement

Beyond the bench, she supports community initiatives. She serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Gender Violence Recovery Centre at Nairobi Women’s Hospital. She also mentors young women through the Big Sister Programme.

Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung’u stands among Kenya’s most experienced jurists. She has shaped constitutional law, strengthened judicial leadership, and influenced major legislative reforms. Now, she extends her service to the global stage as Kenya’s candidate for Judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

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President William Ruto and Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung’u during her ICC candidature launch at State House on May 13, 2026. PHOTO/ PCS