JSC Opens Two-Day Interviews to Pick Kenya’s Next Chief Kadhi

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is today, Monday, November 2, 2026, commencing interviews for the position of Chief Kadhi of the Republic of Kenya, with nine shortlisted candidates expected to appear before the commission.

The interviews, which begin today, will run for two days, with the exercise scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

The recruitment process marks a key stage in the search for a new head of the Kadhi's Courts, with the commission expected to assess the suitability of the nine candidates for the senior judicial position.

According to the commission's announcement, all nine shortlisted applicants are expected to appear before the panel during the two-day exercise.

The interviews will provide an opportunity for the candidates to demonstrate their qualifications, professional experience and understanding of the responsibilities attached to the office.

The Office of the Chief Kadhi plays an important role in Kenya's judicial system, particularly in overseeing the administration of Islamic law in matters relating to personal status, marriage, divorce and inheritance.

The position is anchored in Article 170 of the Constitution, which establishes Kadhi's Courts and outlines their jurisdiction in determining questions of Muslim law.

Under the constitutional provision, the courts handle matters relating to personal status, marriage, divorce and inheritance where all parties profess the Muslim religion and submit to the jurisdiction of the courts.

The Chief Kadhi provides leadership to the Kadhi's Courts and plays a central role in ensuring the administration of justice in matters falling within their constitutional mandate.

The recruitment exercise is therefore expected to draw interest from the Muslim community and other stakeholders within the justice sector.

Following the conclusion of the interviews tomorrow, the commission is expected to proceed with the remaining stages of the recruitment process before settling on the successful candidate.

The appointment will fill the position of Chief Kadhi and provide leadership to the country's Kadhi's Courts.