Chief Justice Martha Koome has announced the tragic passing of Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti of Makadara Law Courts.
The CJ noted that Magistrate Kivuti succumbed to extensive injuries sustained during a shooting incident in her courtroom.
“It is with a heavy heart that I inform the nation that Hon. Monica Kivuti, Principal Magistrate, Makadara Law Courts, has lost the fight against the extensive injuries sustained during an open gun attack in court.
“We condole with the family, friends, and the entire judiciary fraternity during this very difficult period of mourning,” Chief Justice Koome stated.
Adding that; “The Judiciary family stands in solidarity during this deeply traumatic time and calls for sensitivity and compassion as we share in grief. May Hon. Kivuti’s soul rest in eternal peace.”
Kivuti passed away at Nairobi Hospital, where she had been transferred for specialized care following the attack.
Her body has been moved to Lee Funeral Home.
The shooting occurred on Thursday afternoon at Makadara Law Court after Magistrate Kivuti delivered a ruling in a case involving the wife of a policeman.
Following her decision to cancel the bond for an accused who had repeatedly failed to appear in court, Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto pulled out a gun and shot the magistrate, injuring her in the chest and hip.
Kipruto was immediately shot and killed by other officers present in the courtroom. The attack also resulted in injuries to three other officers.
The Judiciary has since suspended operations at Makadara Law Courts and initiated psycho-social counseling for judicial officers and staff.
Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya met with judicial officers to discuss the traumatic event and provide support through a counselling session led by Dr Rose Ngondi from Chiromo Hospital.
During the meeting, the need for increased security and improved infrastructure at Makadara Law Courts was highlighted.
Chief Magistrate Tito Gesora and other magistrates urged the Judiciary to enhance security measures for judicial officers.
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