Justice Said Juma Chitembwe [Photo: Nation Africa]
Justice Said Juma Chitembwe has appeared before the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in a bid to be the one to replace the former Chief Justice David Maraga.
Justice Chitembwe appeared as the first candidate before the 9 panelists and gave reasons to be posted in the position saying he is viable enough, resourceful and fits the seat in the judiciary.
“If I’m appointed, I will build on what others have done with the sole purpose of improving the institution so that it can be what it is supposed to be, as per its vision and mission,” said Justice Chitembwe during his interview.
He also said that he understands the institution very well, which makes him suitable for the Chief Justice position, “I have been in the Judiciary for 12 years now. I have seen it from the period where it was difficult to have a pen and foolscap to write on.”
The interviews will run for two weeks with each candidate appearing before the 9 JSC panelists on separate days.
Amongst the panelists is acting Chief Justice Justice Philomena Mwilu representing the supreme court judges, Justice Ahmed Warsame, the court of appeal judge, commissioner Njeru Macharia from Law Society of Kenya and 6 others.
After interviews, one name will be selected and forwarded to President Uhuru Kenyatta for appointment after parliamentary approval.
10 persons are seeking the position to replace former Chief Justice Maraga.
They include; Justice Chitembwe Said Juma, Prof. Patricia Mbote, Lady Justice Martha Koome, Justice Marete Jjagi, Philip Murgor, Justice Matthews Nduma, Lawyer Fredrick Ngatia, Court of Appeal President Justice William Ouko, Dr. Wekesa Moni and Ms. Alice Yano.