Court of Appeal Judge Katwa Kigen has defended his suitability to serve as a judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya following concerns over his past legal work for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Appearing before the Judicial Service Commission on Tuesday April 28, Kigen told the panel that he would uphold neutrality, objectivity, and fidelity to the law if appointed to the apex court.
He maintained that his professional conduct would be guided strictly by evidence and legal principles, regardless of prior engagements.
Supreme Court hopeful Kigen addresses neutrality questions. Photo: Courtesy.
The concerns stem from a formal petition by a section of Kenyans who questioned whether Kigen could impartially preside over a potential presidential election dispute involving Ruto in 2027.
During the interview, commissioner Fatuma Sichale raised the issue directly, asking whether public apprehension about bias was justified.
In response, Kigen acknowledged that he had previously represented President Ruto in various legal matters, including proceedings at the International Criminal Court and during the 2022 presidential election petition.
However, he argued that such experience is not unusual, noting that many judges have served as advocates before joining the bench.
He further emphasized that the judiciary has clear safeguards to address potential conflicts of interest, including the option for judges to recuse themselves where impartiality may reasonably be questioned.
Kigen also pointed out that the Supreme Court’s mandate extends beyond presidential petitions, covering a wide range of constitutional and legal issues.
Kigen was among six candidates shortlisted to replace the late Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim, who died in December 2025.
The Senior Counsel was appointed to the Court of Appeal in January 2026, and eyes to sit on the bench of the country’s highest court.
