Justice Aggrey Muchelule has been appointed the Principal Judge of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Court of Justice, a prestigious role in the region’s judicial landscape.
The announcement was made on Thursday, November 21, during the 27th Meeting of Attorneys General and Ministers of Justice in Lusaka, Zambia.
The appointment was confirmed by the Attorney General Dorcus Oduor, who expressed pride in Muchelule’s new role, acknowledging it as a testament to his dedication and judicial excellence.
In a public statement on X, Oduor congratulated him, describing the position as an honour not just for the judge but for Kenya as a whole.
Justice Muchelule, currently serving at the Court of Appeal, was unanimously elected to lead the COMESA Court for a five-year term. His selection will see him being tasked with the responsibility of steering the court, which plays a crucial role in resolving cross-border disputes and enhancing legal cooperation across COMESA’s 21 member states.
“The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) represents a significant commitment to fostering regional integration and economic cooperation among member states. It is dedicated to promoting sustainable development, enhancing trade, and improving the overall welfare of its populations through collaborative efforts and shared resources,” noted AG Odour in her congratulatory message to Justice Muchelule.
With over four decades of legal service, Muchelule’s track record speaks volumes. He began his career in 1982 as a District Magistrate and steadily rose through the ranks to become Chief Magistrate, serving in key regions such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kakamega, and Eldoret. By 2009, he was appointed to the High Court, where he presided over landmark cases and led divisions in Kisii, Embu, Bungoma, and Kisumu.
Muchelule holds both a Master of Laws and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi, he also earned a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.
He served on the Task Force on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and was a Commissioner with the Judicial Service Commission, contributing to crucial reforms in Kenya’s judiciary. His leadership extended to professional associations as well, including a tenure as chairman of the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association between 1994 and 1998.
Muchelule’s elevation to the COMESA Court is not without its challenges. His career has weathered political turbulence, including being excluded from promotions by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2021 under controversial circumstances.
Notably, Muchelule’s judicial portfolio includes presiding over high-profile cases such as the Ksh6 billion cocaine scandal and matters related to the Ksh5.8 billion Goldenberg affair.
Source: kENYANS.CO.KE