Women’s time: Celebration as female leaders laud Martha Koome’s nomination for CJ seat
The nomination of the Court of Appeal Judge Justice Martha Koome for the position of Chief Justice somewhat came as a surprise to many Kenyans.
JSC selection panel Chair Prof. Olive Mugenda announced on Tuesday that Justice Koome, who has 33 years of experience in the legal profession, was unanimously endorsed for the seat.
A scan through various congratulatory messages sent to her across multiple social media platforms, to some extent, proved the Judicial Service Commission caught Kenyans off guard.
If the National Assembly approves of her nomination, Justice Koome will be the first female Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya.
Her appointment sparked a unique feeling in a group of women who thronged to social media to celebrate the historic milestone.
Female leaders Celebrate
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Gender Margret Kobia led fellow women in lauding Kobia's nomination.
She expressed confidence that her competency will steer the Judiciary towards efficient service delivery.
"While in private practice, she distinguished herself as a defender of Human Rights concentrating specifically on Gender Rights.
"Lady Justice Koome has shattered the glass ceiling and made history today. We celebrate this incredible achievement," she wrote on Twitter,
To Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, her nomination speaks volume about Kenya's readiness for female leadership.
She tweeted; "congratulations Martha Koome on your JSC nomination as the next CJ of Kenya.
"No doubt the present is female! Your win is yet another clear show that Kenya is indeed ready for female leadership & we are not short of capable & willing women. When one woman wins-All all women win!"
Nakuru Senator Susan Kihika celebrated the nomination by writing: "congratulations Lady Justice @Martha_koome on your well-deserved nomination for the position of Chief Justice, Kenya! Breaking the glass ceiling as you make history as the first woman C."
MP Gladys Wanga in her message wrote: "congratulations Justice Martha Koome on your nomination as the first woman Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya. The glass ceiling is shattered and history is made!"
Lawyer Philip Murgor, who was one of the candidates competing for the CJ post, also congratulated Martha Koome and assured her of his utmost support.
"I take this opportunity to wholeheartedly congratulate Justice Martha Koome for her nomination by the JSC, and assure her of all my support in her onerous responsibilities," he tweeted
