Kenya's Phoebe Okowa Elected Judge of International Court of Justice

Professor Phoebe Okowa has been elected as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a nine-year term running from February 6, 2027, to 2036. 

Okowa was among five candidates elected to serve on the United Nations' principal judicial organ, alongside Dapo Akande of the United Kingdom, François Alabrune of France, Mahmoud Daifallah Hmoud of Jordan and Rena Lee of Singapore.

Join our WhatsApp Channel for the latest news updates.

Following the election, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei welcomed Okowa's victory, describing it as a moment of immense pride for Kenya and congratulating the other successful candidates.

"It is with immense pride that I welcome the election of Judge Phoebe Okowa to the International Court of Justice for the 2027-2036 term, and congratulate Judges from the UK, France, Singapore and Jordan on joining the Court," he wrote.

Sing’Oei said Okowa's election demonstrated the confidence the international community had placed in her ability to serve at a critical moment for international justice.

"Judge Okowa’s election reflects the confidence of the international community in her capacity to serve the Court at this consequential time," he added.

Sing'Oei also acknowledged the countries that participated in the voting process, thanking members of the UN General Assembly and Security Council for supporting the election.

"We deeply aporeciate members of both the General Assembly and Security Council for their votes. We are equally indebted to Sierra Leone, Korea and Ecuador for withdrawing their candidatures after the third round and helping avoid a protracted electoral process," he further said.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga also congratulated Okowa on her election, describing the outcome as a significant endorsement of her legal expertise and international standing.

He said the victory demonstrated the confidence placed in the Kenyan jurist to contribute to addressing challenges facing international justice and the rule of law.

"The resounding victory is an affirmation of the world’s full confidence in one of Kenya’s finest jurists to tackle international justice and the rule of law during this difficult time in global governance," Maraga said.

The government launched its campaign to secure a full term for Okowa at the ICJ in February.

In a statement on Tuesday, February 3, Sing’Oei confirmed Kenya’s decision to present Okowa for a full term at the World Court.

He went on to describe Okowa’s historic role and professional standing, emphasizing her pioneering status and influence in the development of international law.

"Kenya is proud to formally launch the candidature of Judge Phoebe Okowa for a full term at the International Court of Justice (2027–2036).

"As the first African woman on the International Law Commission and now a Judge of the World Court, Judge Okowa is a trailblazer whose scholarship and practical expertise in international law have shaped global jurisprudence," he said.

Sing’Oei framed her re-election as a matter that extends beyond national interest, while appealing to Kenya’s diplomatic partners for backing.

"Her re-election isn't just a win for Kenya; it is a commitment to a fair, diverse, and rules-based international order. We invite our partners in the diplomatic community to support this distinguished jurist as she continues to serve the cause of global justice," he added.