Africa-Press – Kenya. The Supreme Court of Kenya will proceed on its annual Easter recess from Thursday, March 26, 2026, to Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, Martha Koome, has announced.
In a formal notice dated January 27, 2026, CJ Koome said the recess is in line with the Constitution of Kenya and the Supreme Court Act, 2011, as well as the Supreme Court Rules, 2020.
The break allows the apex court to pause regular sittings while maintaining mechanisms to address urgent judicial matters.
“The Supreme Court Easter recess will commence on Thursday, March 26, 2026, and terminate on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, both days inclusive,” the notice reads.
Despite the recess, the Chief Justice assured litigants and the public that essential judicial services will continue uninterrupted.
A duty Judge will be designated and available throughout the recess period to handle urgent and time-sensitive matters that may arise.
“The duty Judge will be available during recess to deal with urgent matters,” Chief Justice Koome stated, underscoring the court’s commitment to access to justice even during scheduled breaks.
The Supreme Court Registry will also remain operational during the recess.
According to the notice, the registry will be open to members of the public on all weekdays, excluding public holidays, from 8:30 am to 5 pm.
This arrangement ensures that administrative services, such as the filing of urgent documents, inquiries, and other registry-related functions, continue without disruption.
The Easter recess is a routine feature in the judicial calendar and is observed across courts to allow judges and staff time for rest while ensuring continuity of critical services.
Over the years, the Supreme Court has emphasised balancing institutional efficiency with the constitutional obligation to provide timely justice.
Chief Justice Koome reiterated that the Supreme Court remains guided by its constitutional mandate.
“The court remains open to the public through the registry and stands ready to address urgent issues in the interest of justice,” she said.
Normal operations of the Supreme Court are expected to resume immediately after the recess ends on April 8, 2026.
