The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) is in mourning following the passing of prominent advocate and activist Judy Thongori who died after a short illness. Judy Thongori has died after a short illness. What will Judy Thongori be remembered for? Thongori was widely respected for her impactful legal representations and her ability to clarify complex legal matters, leaving a lasting impression on many within the profession. Throughout her career, Thongori served as a role model to both established lawyers and aspiring practitioners, known for her dedication to justice and her balanced approach to work and family life.
She was also a passionate advocate for family values, often emphasising the importance of maintaining strong family connections alongside a successful professional career. Thongori frequently credited her husband, John Thongori, as a source of inspiration, highlighting the support she received from him throughout her career. Thongori called on employers to create more inclusive work environments by embracing family life. Reflecting on societal pressures, Thongori shared how she once felt that to be professionally successful, she had to be unattached, with pregnant or breastfeeding women often seen as untidy. She encouraged her colleagues to view her as a family person, just as she perceives them. The senior counsel further recommended that employers support family life by allowing employees to display photos of their loved ones in their offices as a way to feel cared for and energised Thongori also urged employees not to be apologetic about their family roles, noting that it gives them depth and value.
She encouraged women, especially pregnant, breastfeeding mothers, and those with teenage children, to embrace their family identity when applying for jobs, challenging the stereotype that children interfere with work. Her passing is a great loss to the legal community, and her legacy continues to inspire those she mentored and worked with. How did Kenyan lawyers mourn Judy Thongori? Faith Odhiambo eulogised: “This morning, the legal fraternity mourns the loss of a distinguished member and beacon of excellence. Judy Thongori SC has been a monument of legal prowess and exemplified all the qualities of a professional North Star. Her noteworthy contributions to family law and human rights are timeless and continue to propagate a learning curve for many in the profession. The legacy she leaves behind will remain an indelible mark of her impact that lives on among us. We condole with all her friends, family, colleagues, and the Senior Counsel Bar for this immense loss. We pray for divine comfort and healing as we contend with this unfortuitous news. May she rest in peace.”
Judy Thongori S.C. I’m a product of your kindness and mentorship. Rest in peace.” MP Millie Mabona said: “The news about Wakili Judy Thongori is shocking. Life has become a joke.” Gad Aguko asked: “From January 1 to 15, we’ve LSK has lost about 10 advocates both junior and senior with the latest to depart being Judy Thongori, SC who has been a mentor and pillar of support to many. Pray for us lawyers!! Mungu aturehemu.” Emmanuel Muaka Busu noted: “So sad to learn of the sudden death of my mentor and role model SENIOR COUNSEL (SC) Judy Thongori. You are a true champion, icon and family law guru. We will forever miss your input in succession and family law matters. RIP and shine on your way SC till we meet again.” Wakili Steven Mbugua mourned: “Rest in power Judy Thongori. It’s such a huge loss to the legal profession and the country at large.”
by Nancy Odindo
