Wamuzi News Ke
In a deeply solemn and unprecedented event, Kenya’s Judiciary on Wednesday gathered at Milimani Law Courts to officially “close the files” of seven judicial officers who passed away over the past two years. Chief Justice Martha Koome led the ceremony, describing it as one of the most sacred duties the Judiciary can perform.
The judges and magistrates honored in the ceremony include Timothy Ole Tanchu, Jacqueline Muthoni Ojwang, Monicah Kivuti, Zena Atetwe Rashid Jalenga, Bernard Kipyegon Rugut, John Tito Kunyuk, and Kadhi Athman Abdulhalim Hussein.
Koome highlighted the symbolic weight of the event: “As we close their files today, we do not close their memory.” She paid special tribute to Monicah Kivuti, whose tragic death was described as an attack on judicial independence.
The late Chief Kadhi Athman Hussein was remembered for his wisdom and deep commitment to Islamic jurisprudence. Koome said his legal judgments and mentorship left a lasting mark on the Muslim legal community.
Other judges were eulogized for their personal qualities and professional excellence. Bernard Rugut was described as patient and respectful; Jacqueline Ojwang was praised for her kindness and humility; Timothy Tanchu for his warmth and humor; and Zena Jalenga for her passion and resilience in the pursuit of justice.
Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya called the gathering a powerful demonstration of institutional respect. Family members of the deceased expressed gratitude for the gesture, calling it comforting and long overdue.
The “closing of files” ceremony is a revered tradition in the Kenyan Judiciary. Though not codified in law, it is a deeply symbolic event where the institution formally acknowledges the finality of a judge’s legal work, even as their legacy remains very much alive.
