Justice Mohammed Abdullahi Warsame has been sworn in as the 14th judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya in a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi on Thursday morning. President William Ruto presided over the swearing-in, congratulating Warsame and expressing confidence in his ability to serve the nation’s highest court with distinction.
Who Is Justice Warsame
Justice Warsame brings decades of judicial experience to the apex court. Before his appointment to the Supreme Court, he served in the Court of Appeal, where he built a reputation as a thorough and independent jurist with a deep understanding of constitutional law.
His elevation to the Supreme Court followed a rigorous selection process by the Judicial Service Commission, which vetted multiple candidates before forwarding his name to the President for formal appointment.
What the President Said
President Ruto praised Justice Warsame’s track record, noting that his wisdom and integrity would play a defining role in shaping Kenya’s jurisprudence. The President emphasized the importance of a strong and independent judiciary in safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.
The strength of any democracy lies in the independence of its courts. Justice Warsame’s appointment reinforces our commitment to a judiciary that serves all Kenyans without fear or favour.
Filling a Critical Gap
The Supreme Court has been operating below its full complement of seven judges for some time, which at times affected its ability to deliver timely rulings on weighty constitutional matters. Warsame’s appointment brings the court closer to its full strength and is expected to improve the pace of dispending justice at the highest level.
Legal practitioners have welcomed the appointment, saying it will help the court clear a backlog of pending cases and deliver judgments on key constitutional questions that have been awaiting determination.
