Kenya Backs Njoki Ndung’u For ICC Judge Seat With Diplomatic Push
News Updated: 02 April 2026 23:43 EAT
Ruto nominates Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung'u for ICC judge post
The Kenyan government has formally endorsed Njoki Ndung’u as its candidate for election to the International Criminal Court, setting in motion a coordinated diplomatic campaign to secure her seat at The Hague.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed the move, stating that the bid has full backing from the highest levels of government, including President William Ruto and the Cabinet.
Mudavadi said Kenya is mobilising its diplomatic network worldwide to lobby member states of the ICC, noting that the country will mount a robust and strategic campaign ahead of the elections later this year.
The government has established a multi-agency team bringing together the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and the Judiciary to coordinate outreach and engagement with voting countries.
The election of new judges to the ICC is scheduled to take place during the Assembly of States Parties session in December 2026 in New York, where six positions will be filled.
Justice Ndung’u is among a competitive field of candidates drawn from across different regions, with several African contenders expected to battle for the available slots.
Chief Justice Martha Koome has also thrown her weight behind Ndung’u’s candidacy, describing her as a highly qualified jurist with extensive experience in constitutional law and human rights.
Koome urged Kenyan diplomats and stakeholders to actively support the campaign, emphasizing the importance of presenting a united national front to improve the chances of success.
Mudavadi cautioned against internal political divisions, warning that disunity could weaken Kenya’s lobbying efforts on the international stage and undermine the country’s credibility.
If elected, Ndung’u would join the ranks of judges at the ICC, marking a significant milestone for Kenya’s judiciary and reinforcing the country’s presence in global legal institutions.
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FELIX MAKONA
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