Race for Kenya’s next Chief Justice enters day 2

By James Macharia
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on Tuesday entered day 2 of its interviews in search of the next Chief Justice.

Tuesday saw Patricia Kameri Mbote, Kenya’s first female Law Professor face the panel, and in a hot buttoned interview tried to showcase her qualifications for the seat.

In the panel chaired by Professor Olive Mugenda, Prof. Mbote confirmed that she is not only a Professor but also an institution builder.

“In the world of academia, I’ve done much. I started the famous Strathmore Law school amongst other institutions such as Women In Law in East,” said Professor Kameri.

She also served as dean of the University of Nairobi and according to her,she led the University through most difficult times. She says that she became the school’s dean when the students themselves sent home the then dean.

The professor says that being a female dean, she suffered some rejection and was also underrated by her male colleagues.

If she wins the seat, one of her agenda will be seeking to agitate for more funding by the Judiciary as she argues that the current Sh.500 million is less than arm’s annual expenditure.

She also promises to oversee and enhance the welfare of judicial officers as well as promoting unity between Judiciary and other arms of government.

Professor Mbote becomes second to be interviewed by JSC, after Said Juma who was interviewed by the panel.

The panel also features the acting Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu.

Mr Juma and Professor Mbote are among 8 others who will also pass through the hands of the panel,persuing to clinch the seat.

On Wednesday, Lady Justice Martha Koome will be the subject of the interview as the panel gets in its third day of the process.

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