The legal fraternity led by Chief Justice Martha Koome Friday closed the files of two judges – the late David Majanja and the late Daniel Ogembo who passed on in 2024.
This was during the special court tribute session proceedings held in honour of the two judges at Milimani Law Courts, that also saw the proceedings adopted as a permanent record of the Court for the distinguished judges.
Judges and representatives from the legal profession who made submissions before the tribute bench presided over by Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court Martha Koome and comprising of Appeal Judge Lydia Achode, High Court Principal Judge Eric Ogola, Environment & Land Court Principal Judge Oscar Angote and Employment and Labour Relations Court Judge Hellen Wasilwa celebrated their professional achievements as jurists who left an indelible mark in the legal corridors.
They lauded the two judges saying their judicial careers were characterized by hard work, thoroughness in their research and commitment to service.
The Chief Justice said the tradition of holding Special Court Tribute Proceedings for departed colleagues serves as a powerful reminder that all are stewards in the temple of justice.
“It is a moment for collective reflection – to honour those who have served with distinction, and to recommit ourselves to the values that defined their lives: integrity, fidelity to the rule of law, and excellence in the dispensation of justice,” the CJ said in her submissions.Justice Koome said the lives and service of Justices Majanja and Ogembo exemplified judicial excellence – marked by integrity, diligence, humility, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
“This Special Sitting, while marked with grief at the loss of our dear colleagues, is equally a celebration of their remarkable contributions to the law and to our society,” the CJ said.
She added: “Justices Majanja and Ogembo embodied the highest ideals of our profession. They each brought a distinctive voice and vision to the Bench, contributing richly to the growth of our jurisprudence and enhanced our system of the administration of justice.”
The CJ observed that the judges showed that a judge can be both an intellectual giant and a deeply humane person – that justice is best served when principle meets compassion.
“As we reflect on the lives of these two jurists, we see shared values that should inspire us all: a deep respect for the rule of law, a passion for service, and a commitment to fairness and dignity for every person.”
She called on the legal fraternity to renew their commitment to uphold the Constitution and to serve the people of Kenya with humility and integrity in their honour saying that it is the tribute they deserve.
Deputy Solicitor General Charles Mutinda, Director of Public Prosecution Renson Ingonga, Chair of the Senior Counsel Bar Dr Fred Ojiambo, Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA) President Justice Stephen Radido, Judges Welfare Association President Justice Patrick Otieno, Civil Division Judge Linus Kassan, Siaya High Court Presiding Judge David Kemei and Judicial Service Commission Vice Chairperson Isaac Rutto also made submissions during the special tribute sitting.
By Margaret Kalekye
