The COMESA Court of Justice (CCJ) today sat to hear its first matter this year since the swearing-in of its new bench, marking a historic milestone for the regional judicial body. The case, Reference Number 1 of 2026, involves Middle East Glass Manufacturing Company S.A.E. against the Republic of Kenya, sued through the Attorney General. 

The matter was heard before a bench presided over by Judge Muchelule, sitting alongside Judge Lavender Makoni, Judge Mavuso, Judge Samia, and Judge Tewodros. 

Proceedings opened with the Court addressing Application Number 1 of 2026, a preliminary objection raised against the Reference. Counsel for the parties made their submissions before the bench, setting the tone for what is expected to be a closely watched test of the Court’s procedures and jurisdiction. 

After hearing arguments on the preliminary objection, the Court adjourned the matter without delivering an immediate decision. It announced that its ruling will be handed down on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. 

The outcome of the ruling will be significant not only for the parties involved but also for the broader COMESA membership, as it will offer an early indication of how the newly sworn-in bench intends to handle questions of admissibility and procedure in future references. 

Further updates will follow once the Court delivers its ruling.