Kenya has officially unveiled the candidature of Njoki Ndung’u for a judge position at the International Criminal Court (ICC), signaling the country’s commitment to strengthening global justice systems. The launch took place at State House Nairobi, where President William Ruto described the move as a national endorsement and urged Kenyans to rally behind the Supreme Court judge’s bid.
President Ruto emphasized that Kenya’s support for Justice Ndung’u goes beyond national pride, framing it as a contribution to the advancement of fair and impartial international justice. He highlighted her extensive legal career spanning more than three decades, noting her service as a State counsel, nominated Member of Parliament, constitutional reform advocate, and currently a judge of the Supreme Court. According to the President, her professional journey reflects Kenya’s democratic evolution and constitutional transformation.
The Head of State underscored the importance of credibility in international justice, stating that institutions like the ICC must uphold fairness, independence, and adherence to evidence. He warned that the legitimacy of global justice systems could be undermined if they are perceived as biased or influenced by geopolitical interests. Kenya, he said, supports a rules-based international order where justice is accessible, impartial, and grounded in the principles of the Rome Statute.
President Ruto also stressed the need for stronger African representation at the ICC, noting that a significant number of the court’s cases involve African countries and victims. He argued that Africa should not only be a subject of international justice but also actively shape its direction and outcomes.
Justice Ndung’u has played a key role in shaping Kenya’s legal framework. She was part of the Committee of Experts that drafted the 2010 Constitution and was instrumental in championing reforms on sexual and gender-based violence, including the Sexual Offences Act of 2006. She has also contributed to regional frameworks such as the Maputo Protocol, which promotes women’s rights across Africa. Her experience in criminal prosecution, constitutional development, and victim-centered justice has been cited as a strong foundation for her candidature.
The event was attended by several senior government officials and legal figures, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Chief Justice Martha Koome, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, and former ICC judge Joyce Aluoch. Chief Justice Koome noted that Justice Ndung’u emerged from a competitive and rigorous selection process, expressing confidence in her ability to serve effectively at the international level.
Justice Ndung’u’s nomination follows a national vetting process, as required under the Rome Statute, which mandates that candidates be endorsed by their respective governments. The election for new ICC judges is scheduled for 2026, with successful candidates set to serve a nine-year term beginning in 2027. During international engagements, including the Africa Forward Summit, President Ruto has been actively lobbying global leaders to support her bid.
In her remarks, Justice Ndung’u expressed gratitude for the endorsement, pledging to uphold the rule of law and promote justice on a global scale. She reaffirmed her dedication to protecting human dignity and strengthening legal systems worldwide if elected to the ICC bench.
