The Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) on Wednesday approved the nomination of Lady Justice Martha Koome to be appointed as Kenya’s first female Chief Justice.

Koome’s nomination by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for the position of Chief Justice was approved by JLAC during a special session of the National Assembly.

Committee chair Muturi Kigano tabled a report in the House after vetting Justice Koome for suitability to take over from Chief Justice David Maraga who retired earlier this year.

The report is set to be debated by Members of Parliament and if the August House approves her nomination her name will be forwarded President Uhuru Kenyatta for appointment.

Justice Koome has close to 33 years of experience in the legal profession and was selected by JSC from 10 candidates who were interviewed for the post of CJ.