Chief Justice Calls for Fiscal Discipline and Strong Inter-Agency Collaboration
Chief Justice on January 12, 2026 presided over the swearing-in of Mr. Ali Abdullahi Surraw as the new Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), following a competitive and merit-based recruitment process.
In her remarks, the Chief Justice congratulated Mr. Surraw on his appointment, describing it as a significant moment for both the Commission and the country. She noted that, together with the SRC Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Commissioners, the new CEO now carries the responsibility of ensuring the Commission continues to fulfil its constitutional mandate of promoting equitable, transparent and sustainable management of public sector pay.
The Chief Justice emphasised the need for the SRC to strike a delicate balance between the legitimate expectations of state and public officers for fair remuneration and the constitutional requirement for fiscal responsibility. She said this balance was critical to the long-term stability of public institutions and the national economy.
She further highlighted the strong working relationship between the Judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the SRC, noting that close collaboration remains essential in attracting, retaining and motivating skilled professionals within the Judicial Service.
Turning to developments within the Judiciary, the Chief Justice revealed that the JSC had on the same day commenced interviews for candidates seeking appointment as Judges of the Court of Appeal. She said the recruitment process would later extend to the High Court, the Environment and Land Court, and Kadhis, in line with Article 172 of the Constitution and the Judicial Service Act.
According to the Chief Justice, the ongoing recruitment drive aims to enhance access to justice, improve service delivery and reduce case backlogs, particularly in superior courts where caseload pressures remain high. She noted that this follows the recent appointment of 100 Resident Magistrates in December 2025, a move she described as critical in strengthening the Magistracy, the primary entry point to justice for most Kenyans.
She said the recruitment of Judges, Magistrates and Kadhis forms part of a broader, system-wide strategy to enhance judicial capacity and ensure timely and effective delivery of justice.
The Chief Justice underscored the importance of collaboration between the SRC and other service commissions, saying such partnerships are central to building an efficient, motivated and people-centred public service grounded in constitutional values, integrity and professionalism.
Making her closing remarks,she reminded Mr. Surraw that the oath he took binds him to uphold the Constitution and the law, and called on him to serve with diligence, integrity and devotion. She assured him of the Judiciary’s continued support and collaboration in advancing constitutional governance and service delivery for Kenyans.
