Chemistry Professor bows out of Deputy Chief Justice race

Dr Isaac Michael Rutenberg has been disqualified by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) vetting panel in the ongoing interviews for the post of Deputy Chief Justice.

According to the vetting panel’s chair, Prof Margaret Kobia, Rutenberg does hold have the requisite experience required for the position.

Ruternberg, who holds a PhD in chemistry, has never served in the Judiciary, a requirement outlined in Article 166 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.

Dr Rutenberg, however, believes that he can serve in the highest court saying that this can be done through research as done by other judges.

Rutenberg’s legal qualification is 5 years in California but has never practiced in Kenyan and neither is he an advocate of the High Court.

In his defence, Rutenberg  said that he is familiar with the Kenyan family and property laws but is not an expert.

Rutenberg was the only male candidate vying for the post after David Mwaure Waihiga opted out of the race.