The Cabinet has endorsed the Judges Retirement Benefits Bill, 2025, which seeks to establish a bespoke retirement system for Kenya’s superior court judges.
Chaired by President William Ruto, the Cabinet noted that the current structure under the general Pensions Act does not adequately reflect the unique demands and ethical obligations of judicial service. The new law proposes a two-tier pension framework a defined benefit system for currently serving judges and a defined contribution plan for future appointees.
“This is aimed at strengthening judicial independence and attracting the most qualified legal professionals,” the Cabinet dispatch stated.
The bill provides for enhanced retirement benefits including monthly pensions, gratuities, medical insurance, and diplomatic privileges for retired judges and their spouses. These provisions aim to ensure that judges, after years of upholding the rule of law, retire with dignity and financial security.
Under the proposed scheme, a judge’s pension will be calculated as a percentage of their final salary. In addition, they may receive a gratuity a lump sum based on their annual salary and years of service. In some instances, part of this gratuity will be paid upfront, with the rest converted into a lifelong pension, with benefits extending to dependents.
A reversionary pension is also provided for, allowing the judge’s surviving spouse including same-sex partners to continue receiving a portion of the pension after the judge’s death.
Kenyan judges typically serve until the age of 70, although they can opt for early retirement from the age of 65. The Chief Justice is limited to a 10-year term but may continue as a Supreme Court judge if below retirement age when their term ends.
The Judges Retirement Benefits Bill recognizes the special role judges play in upholding justice and seeks to honor their contribution through a dignified and secure retirement. If enacted, this law will mark a significant step toward modernizing judicial welfare in Kenya.
