JSC begins interviews for judges

Written By:KBC reporters,    Posted: Mon, Jul 04, 2011

Malindi magistrate Kiarie Joshua before the JSC Chief Justice Willy Mutunga on Monday began his first official duty of interviewing judges to serve in the High Court.  Five applicants out of 115 lined up appeared before the Judicial Service Commission for interviews as reforms in the judiciary pick momentum. First to appear before the panel was Law Society of Kenya Meru branch chairman Charles Kariuki Mutungi. Mutungi told the panel that lawyers have contributed largely to the the backlog of cases being experienced in the courts. He said most lawyers present insufficiently researched submissions leading to delay of cases. He further said that to enhance efficiency in the country's judiciary, officers who fail to deliver should be relieved of their duties instead of being transferred to other stations. Second to be grilled was Malindi magistrate, Kiarie Joshua who was taken to task over poor recommendation by one of his referees. He however defended himself claiming he is a changed person and an expert in criminal law. Another lawyer Joseph Kamau defended his candidature saying his interest is in commercial law and he would translate his experience in the corporate world to assist the High Court. Others interviewed include magistrate Stella Muketi and lawyer Joram Otiende. After the interviews that end in August , JSC will pick 26 judges. The move to hire more judges is aimed at reducing delay of cases in the country's courts. On Sunday,  Dr Mutunga attributed inefficiency in the judiciary to insufficient staff among other things. For appointment to the position of judge of the High Court, the applicants must possess the following qualifications:- a) At least ten (10) years' experience as a superior Court Judge or professionally qualified Magistrate; or b) At least ten (10) years' experience as a distinguished academic or legal practitioner or such experience in other relevant legal field. Experience gained in Kenya or in another Commonwealth common law jurisdiction will be considered c)The candidates should also have a high moral character, integrity and impartiality.