President William Ruto has quietly but powerfully campaigned in support of Supreme Court Justice Njoki Ndung’u, who is seeking a position on the International Criminal Court bench.
This coordinated diplomatic effort to secure Justice Ndung’u's election is part of Kenya’s broader ambition to increase its influence within global legal institutions.
As co-host of the Africa Forward Summit, President Ruto has informed all visiting leaders whose countries are signatories to the Rome Statute — the foundational law that established the ICC — that Kenya is supporting a candidate.
On Sunday, Kenya’s president officially sought support from African heads of state, including Liberia’s president, Joseph Boakai.
“I requested President Boakai to consider the candidacy of Supreme Court Justice Njoki Ndung’u for the International Criminal Court,” said President Ruto.
He also met with Côte d'Ivoire's President Alassane Ouattara, with discussions centring on Njoki's candidacy.
The ICC is preparing for elections to fill six vacant judge positions on its bench, which are scheduled to take place in December 2026 during the 25th Assembly of States Parties in New York.
Kenya’s push for a seat on the Hague-based tribunal reflects a strategy to increase African influence within global justice systems and bridge the historical trust deficit between the continent and the court.
Justice Ndung’u has served on the Supreme Court of Kenya since its inception. She was one of nine experts chosen to draft the 2010 Constitution of Kenya, serving on the Committee of Experts — a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s modern democratic and constitutional governance framework.
Justice Ndung’u has an extensive background in human rights law and legislative reform. Her expertise in addressing crimes against vulnerable populations aligns with the ICC’s mandate, which focuses on war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
The campaigns were launched on May 4, 2026, following the swearing-in ceremony for the newly appointed High Court and Environment and Land Court judges at State House.
During this event, he held a significant meeting with Chief Justice Martha Koome, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, and Justice Ndung’u, who is Kenya’s candidate for a seat on the ICC.
The Court frequently deals with cases involving the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, an area in which Ndung’u’s legislative and judicial experience would be extremely valuable.
