Chief Justice Martha Koome has announced that the Supreme Court of Kenya will proceed on its annual December recess from Sunday, December 21, 2025, to Tuesday, January 13, 2026, both days inclusive.
During this period, a duty judge will be on standby to handle urgent matters that may arise, ensuring continuity in the administration of justice. The Supreme Court Registry will also remain open to the public on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding public holidays.
Koome noted that the recess is part of the judiciary’s calendar to allow justices and staff time to review, research, and prepare for the new judicial year. However, full hearings will not take place during this period, meaning that appeals, constitutional petitions, and other proceedings will be temporarily paused.
Legal practitioners and litigants have been advised to plan their litigation timelines accordingly, accounting for potential delays in case hearings or judgments. Urgent applications such as injunctions or stays can still be processed through the duty judge.
In the same Kenya Gazette notice, CJ Koome also announced several key judicial and administrative appointments aimed at strengthening the justice system.
Under the Sports Act (Cap. 223), the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) appointed Allan Mola Owinyi as the Deputy Chairperson of the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT), effective October 7, 2025, for a term ending May 16, 2030.
Additionally, five new members were appointed to the SDT for five-year terms beginning September 15, 2025. They include Eddie Omondi, Victor Obwaya Omwebu, Aleli Peris Mukoko, Nicodemus Kimanthi Musau, and Luke Wamugunda Irungu.
Koome further announced the establishment of a new Environment and Land Court (ELC) station in Limuru, expanding access to justice for land and environmental disputes in the region.
These developments underscore the Judiciary’s ongoing commitment to improving judicial efficiency and service delivery across Kenya.
