The Cabinet has approved the Judges Retirement Benefits Bill, 2025, designed to overhaul the retirement framework for judges of the superior courts.
The Bill, which is aimed at strengthening judicial independence and improving the welfare of judicial officers, was approved during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto on Tuesday, April 29.
According to a statement issued following the meeting, the Bill is aimed at creating a distinct benefits system that reflects the unique nature of judicial service.
“In a demonstration of its commitment to enhancing governance, strengthening judicial independence, and attracting the most qualified legal professionals, the Cabinet endorsed the Judges Retirement Benefits Bill, 2025.
"The Bill establishes a dedicated pension and retirement benefits framework for judges of the superior courts, moving them away from the general Pensions Act and recognising the unique demands of judicial service,” the statement read.
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Additionally, the Bill proposes the introduction of a two-tier pension system; one for serving judges and another for new appointees.
"It introduces a Defined Benefit system for serving judges and a Defined Contribution system for new appointees, ensuring financial security, protecting judicial independence, and aligning with broader public sector pension reforms,” the statement added.
According to the statement, one of the notable features of the proposed law is the enhancement of retirement benefits for judges.
In addition to monthly pensions and gratuities, the Bill includes provisions for post-retirement medical cover and diplomatic privileges for both retired judges and their spouses.
“The new law provides for enhanced retirement benefits, including monthly pensions, gratuities, medical coverage, and diplomatic privileges for retired judges and their spouses, allowing them to retire with dignity after decades of service under strict ethical standards,” the statement further read.
The move was hailed by leaders including Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma who said financial independence for judges is critical both in service and out of the service.
"My happiest day! Financial independence of judges is critical in service as it is out of service. We will look at this law by President William Ruto administration and improve on it where necessary. I also hope it includes all judicial officers, not only judges," he wrote on X.
