The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has explained the key factors they were looking for to deliver the next Chief Justice in Kenya and also went ahead to reveal how the applicants scored. This is after Appeal Judge David Maraga was declared the most successful.
Among the key areas that the panel assessed includes: Academic prowess, Legal acumen, integrity,independence, and administrative skills. In line with the aforementioned factors, this is how the candidates faired.
1. David Maraga – 84%
According to the panel, Justice Maraga stood out among all candidates. One of the commissioners Tom Ojienda said his ability to be independent and relate well with other colleagues was outstanding. Another key factor that experts have argued is that Maraga is an insider who understood various court operations.
2. Smokin Wanjala – 74%
Although impressive at how he responded to questions, he took the second position.
3. Professor Makau Mutua – 72%
Critics term his abrasive demeanor as a key factor that worked against him.
4. Nzamba Kitonga
Nzamba Kitonga, a senior council and also former chair of the committee of experts, was number four in the JSC score card.
This is how the rest of the candidates were ranked.
5. Alnashir Visram
6. Professor Jackton Ojwang
7. Msagha Mbogholo
8. Roselyn Nambuye
9. Lucy Wanja Julius
10. Aaron Ringera
11. Ambassador Daniel Wambura
The JSC will from Monday begin the search for a deputy chief justice with 16 applicants lined up for the interviews.