By Dawan Africa - Admin
Kenya, 22 June 2026 - Justice Gatembu Kairu has been elected as the new President of the Court of Appeal, securing a strong mandate to lead Kenya’s second-highest court for the next five years.
In the election held on Monday, the experienced judge received 26 votes out of 41 cast, defeating fellow Court of Appeal judges Lady Justice Lydia Achode, Justice Patrick Kiage, and Lady Justice Agnes Murgor.
The contest was conducted by secret ballot and supervised by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
It brings to an end several weeks of speculation about who would replace Justice Daniel Musinga, whose five-year term ended on 24 May 2026.
Significant Role
The position is one of the most powerful in the Kenyan Judiciary.
As President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Kairu will oversee the appellate court and represent its judges on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), the body tasked with managing the Judiciary and appointing judges.
The Court of Appeal adjudicates many of the country’s most important cases, including constitutional petitions, election disputes, major commercial matters, and high-profile criminal appeals.
Its rulings frequently influence Kenya’s legal and political direction.
Competitive Race
The election featured four prominent judicial figures. Justice Patrick Kiage is recognised for his scholarly rulings and clear legal writing.
Lady Justice Achode has an extensive record of judicial service, including her time as Principal Judge of the High Court.
On the other hand, Lady Justice Murgor, a veteran appellate judge with considerable expertise in commercial law, also competed strongly.
But after the election process, it is Justice Kairu who emerged as the clear choice of his peers.
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Proven Track Record
Justice Kairu brings substantial experience to the role, having served on both the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
He has presided over numerous significant cases involving governance, constitutional law, land matters, and public interest litigation.
His election occurs as the Judiciary contends with intense public scrutiny, a substantial backlog of cases, and calls for swifter delivery of justice.
Previous Leaders
Justice Kairu succeeds Justice Musinga, who held the position from 2021 until the end of his non-renewable term in May 2026.
He follows a line of previous presidents, including Justice William Ouko (2018–2021), Justice Erastus Githinji (2015–2018), and Justice Kihara Kariuki (2013–2015).
In the period after Justice Musinga’s term expired, Lady Justice Wanjiru Karanja served as acting president until a substantive appointment was made.
Challenges Ahead
Justice Kairu takes office at a pivotal time. The Court of Appeal is managing an increasing volume of appeals linked to constitutional challenges, election disputes, commercial conflicts, and public interest cases.
His leadership will be under close observation by the legal community and the wider public as the court continues to rule on matters with major implications for governance, commerce, and the rule of law in Kenya.