KENYA: President Ruto Signs Judges’ Retirement Benefits Act into Law

By Moses Punyuah, Nairobi 

President William Ruto has assented to the Judges’ Retirement Benefits Bill at State House, Nairobi, in a move aimed at strengthening the Judiciary and reinforcing its independence.

The new law establishes a Judges’ Retirement Benefits Fund for judges appointed after the commencement of the Act, with judges contributing 7.5 per cent of their basic salary while the Government contributes 15 per cent.

“The enactment of the Judges’ Retirement Benefits Act strengthens the Judiciary and reinforces its independence by guaranteeing retirement benefits and safeguarding the security of tenure of our judges,” President Ruto said.

The Act also provides additional benefits for judges, including medical cover, diplomatic passports, and access to government airport lounges, in recognition of the demanding nature of judicial

service.