KIAMBU, Kenya- As Kenya steadily moves toward the high-stakes 2027 General Election, Justice Isaac Lenaola has assured the public that there will no judicial crisis at the Supreme Court of Kenya despite recent vacancies and speculation about possible exits.
Speaking during the launch of the School of Law and the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme at Zetech University‘s Mang’u Campus in Juja, Kiambu County, Justice Lenaola said that the country’s apex court remains stable, functional and capable of handling constitutional and electoral disputes that may arise in 2027.
“There is no judicial crisis at the Supreme Court, Kenyans should not be worried. The court is stable and fully able to perform its mandate,” he said.
Concerns Over Supreme Court Vacancies
Justice Lenaola addressed growing public concern triggered by the death of Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim, speculation about the possible appointment of Njoki Ndung’u to the International Criminal Court, and claims that Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu was preparing to retire.
He clarified that DCJ Mwilu is not retiring and will remain part of the Supreme Court bench that will preside over key electoral and constitutional disputes linked to the 2027 General Election.
Lenaola further revealed that the vacancy left by the late Mohammed Ibrahim is expected to be filled by May, ensuring the court remains fully constituted ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle.
Court Capable Even With Reduced Bench
On the possibility of Justice Njoki Ndung’u leaving for the International Criminal Court, Lenaola explained that the process is not automatic and involves a lengthy international appointment procedure.
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He added that even if Justice Ndung’u eventually leaves, the court would still have six judges, which is sufficient to continue hearing and determining cases without disruption.
“Even with Justice Njoki absent, the bench would remain with six judges. During the last General Election, we were only five,” Lenaola said, referencing the court’s handling of the presidential election petition during the previous electoral cycle.
His remarks come amid growing national debate about whether vacancies at the Supreme Court could create uncertainty ahead of the 2027 elections, given the court’s central role in resolving presidential election petitions and other constitutional disputes.
Zetech University Launches School of Law
The event also marked a significant milestone for Zetech University, which officially launched its School of Law and unveiled its Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Margaret Njuguna said the programme aims to expand access to legal education while responding to the evolving needs of the legal profession.
The pioneer class has already enrolled 15 students.
“This law school will help fill an important gap and offer programmes that respond to market demand and the changing realities of the legal profession,” Prof. Njuguna said.
Law Curriculum Updated for AI Era
A representative from the Commission for University Education (CUE) said the commission conducted a thorough review before licensing the programme.
According to the official, the traditional law curriculum has been updated to incorporate artificial intelligence and modern technology, ensuring students are prepared for an increasingly digital legal environment.
“We were very keen when licensing this programme. The traditional curriculum has been checked and adjusted to fit the advent of AI and technology,” the official said.
Judiciary Prepared for 2027 Elections
With national conversations already turning toward the 2027 General Election, Justice Lenaola’s reassurance is expected to ease concerns among Kenyans who view the Supreme Court as the final guardian of electoral justice and constitutional order.
The court plays a critical role in determining presidential election petitions and safeguarding constitutional governance in the country.
