The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has appointed 100 resident magistrates to strengthen the administration of justice across Kenya.
In a statement, JSC stated that the appointments come in handy to enhance efficiency in the judicial system in the country.
“Magistrates’ courts handle most criminal and civil cases, making these appointments a major step toward reducing case backlogs, improving access to justice – especially in underserved areas – and enhancing specialization in key areas such as Children’s Courts and Small Claims Courts,” the statement read in part.
The additional 100 magistrates come to boost the current 560 magistrates serving in 143 courts and support JSC’s mandate to ensure an effective, efficient, and accessible judiciary.
JSC elaborated that the appointed magistrates are part of its strategy to boost public confidence in courts.
“This recruitment is part of the Commission’s broader strategy to ensure timely justice delivery and reinforce public confidence in the rule of law,” the statement added.
Candidates appointed to the position of resident magistrate
In a list seen by News9 Kenya, the appointed magistrates include Ian Johnson Ondari, Chepkirui Jesca, Joash Kirui Mitei, Sharon Kaari Njagi, David Otieno Onyango, Dennis Kyalo Wambua, Prudence Dolphin Shabuya, Tawana Kenda Miheso, and Wilson Omondi Kombwayo
Other successful candidates include Lynnloice Alenga Azenga, Barbra Yvette Auma Owino, Susan Njoki Ndung’u, Faith Chebet Boit, Kevin Otieno, Iqra Hassan Bare, Joan Kavinya Mati, Jimmy Mambo Mulisho, and Naima Ibrahim Rajab.
Additionally, the list included Charity Auma Okumu, James Gitau, Linet Nekesa Lusweti, Sheila Salole Oriwo, Lucy Chebet, Philemon Lemein, Jesca Chepkurui, Sarah Mokeira, and Eva Miriam Odhiambo, among multiple others.
The judiciary in Kenya faces a shortage of staff and the new appointments are a welcome relief for many Kenyans who have to wait for months to get court dates and years to have their cases attended to.
What is the role of a resident magistrate?
A resident magistrate presides over courts, handles deputy registrars duties as stipulated in various statues, oversees the operations of the court(s), manages staff under his or her charge, and carries out a variety of administrative functions for those heading stations.
He or she hears and determines civil and criminal cases within their jurisdiction, passes sentences, and manages court operations, including staff and administration.
The magistrate serves as a judicial officer responsible for upholding justice, managing case flow, and handling specific roles like small claims court adjudication and children’s court matters.
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