Justice Gatembu Kairu has been elected as the new President of Kenya’s Court of Appeal following a decisive victory in an internal election conducted by judges of the appellate court. His election marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of the country’s most influential judicial institutions as it continues to handle complex constitutional, electoral, and legal disputes.
Highlights
- Justice Gatembu Kairu won the Court of Appeal presidency with 26 votes.
- A total of 41 ballots were cast in the election.
- He defeated Justices Lydia Achode, Patrick Kiage, and Agnes Murgor.
- Kairu succeeds Justice Daniel Musinga, whose term ended in May 2026.
- The election was conducted through a secret ballot overseen by the IEBC.
Main Story
Kairu Secures Convincing Victory
Justice Gatembu Kairu has been elected the new President of the Court of Appeal after emerging victorious in a competitive race involving some of the Judiciary’s most experienced judges.
In an announcement made by the Judiciary of Kenya on Monday, June 22, 2026, Justice Kairu was declared the winner after receiving 26 of the 41 votes cast by judges of the Court of Appeal.
His victory saw him overcome a strong field that included Lady Justice Lydia Achode, Justice Patrick Kiage, and Lady Justice Agnes Murgor in an election closely followed within legal and judicial circles.
The position is among the most significant leadership roles in Kenya’s Judiciary, with the holder responsible for providing administrative direction and overseeing the operations of the Court of Appeal.
Taking Over From Justice Daniel Musinga
Justice Kairu assumes the role following the end of Justice Daniel Musinga’s tenure, which concluded on May 24, 2026.
As the head of Kenya’s second-highest court, Kairu will play a crucial role in guiding the institution that hears appeals from the High Court and other superior courts. The Court of Appeal is often at the centre of major constitutional, governance, and electoral matters that shape the country’s legal landscape.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Justice Kairu brings decades of legal experience to the position.
He holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from Boston University and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Nairobi. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, reflecting his expertise in dispute resolution.
Before joining the bench, he built a successful career in private legal practice and contributed to legal education as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi School of Law. During his time in academia, he taught various subjects including civil procedure, banking law, and alternative dispute resolution.
In 2012, he joined the Judiciary as a Judge of the Court of Appeal and has since played a role in several reform initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening judicial processes.
Significance of the Election
The election of a Court of Appeal President is regarded as a key moment in the Judiciary’s governance structure. Beyond administrative leadership, the office carries significant influence in shaping the court’s direction and ensuring the efficient handling of cases.
This year’s election was conducted through a secret ballot, with the process overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), highlighting the transparency and institutional integrity of the exercise.
With his election now confirmed, attention shifts to Justice Kairu’s leadership agenda and how he will steer the appellate court through the evolving legal and constitutional challenges facing the country.
As Justice Gatembu Kairu takes over the leadership of the Court of Appeal, many will be watching to see how his experience and vision shape the future of Kenya’s judiciary.
