Nairobi, Kenya — Sahan Post | Kenya has won a seat at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), filling the vacancy left by Somali jurist Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf following his resignation.
In a closely contested election between Kenya and Sierra Leone, Kenyan candidate Justice Phoebe Nyawade Okowaemerged victorious, securing a position on the world’s top judicial body. Justice Okowa’s election marks a significant diplomatic win for Nairobi, reaffirming Kenya’s growing influence in international legal and governance circles.
The development comes against the backdrop of a recent maritime boundary dispute between Somalia and Kenya, which was adjudicated by the same court. The 2021 ICJ ruling largely favored Somalia, straining relations between the two East African neighbors.
Observers say Kenya’s return to the ICJ bench could signal a renewed chapter in the country’s engagement with international law and regional diplomacy.
Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, who vacated the seat, is widely respected for his contributions to international jurisprudence and for his tenure as ICJ President from 2018 to 2021.
Contact: info@sahanpost.com
© Sahan Post
Discover more from SahanPost - English
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.