William Ruto has nominated Njoki Ndung’u as Kenya’s candidate for the upcoming election of judges at the International Criminal Court. The election will take place in December at the court’s headquarters in The Hague in the Netherlands. The nomination places Kenya among several countries preparing candidates for one of the most influential judicial bodies in international law. Ndung’u has served as a judge of the Supreme Court of Kenya since 2011. Her experience in constitutional law and criminal justice positions her as a key contender in the competitive global election.
Ndung’u has built a long career in legal reform and public service. Before joining the Supreme Court she served in Kenya’s Parliament where she pushed for legal changes that strengthened the country’s response to sexual violence and gender based crimes. Her work in legal advocacy helped shape modern legislation that protects victims and improves accountability. During her time on the Supreme Court she participated in several landmark rulings that shaped Kenya’s constitutional framework after the 2010 constitution. This background gives her a strong profile in international justice circles where experience in constitutional law and human rights remains critical.
The election for judges at the International Criminal Court attracts candidates from many legal systems around the world. Each country submits nominees who must meet strict standards of legal expertise and integrity. Ndung’u will compete against several candidates who also bring strong professional records. Among them is Deo John Nangela from Tanzania and Rosette Muzigo from Uganda. Other nominees include Everlyn Ankumah from Ghana and Guénaël Mettraux from Switzerland. The list also features Yoshimitsu Yamauchi and Diana Carolina Olarte from Colombia, reflecting the global nature of the court’s judicial selection process.
The International Criminal Court plays a central role in global justice. The court prosecutes individuals accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes when national courts cannot or will not act. Judges at the ICC examine evidence, preside over trials and determine legal interpretations that influence international law. The selection process therefore attracts attention from governments, legal scholars and human rights groups across the world. Candidates must demonstrate deep knowledge of international law and strong records of judicial independence.
Kenya’s decision to nominate Ndung’u signals confidence in her legal background and international credibility. If elected she would join a panel of judges responsible for some of the most complex criminal cases in global justice. Her participation could also strengthen Africa’s representation within the ICC bench. The December election will determine whether her experience and judicial record secure support from member states. Regardless of the final outcome, the nomination highlights Kenya’s effort to contribute legal expertise to international justice and global accountability.
