Exceptional advocate! Ruto, CJ Koome mourn Judy Thongori

President William Ruto has joined the nation in mourning the death of Senior Counsel Judy Thongori describing her as an “exceptional advocate and champion for justice.”

In a heartfelt tribute, Ruto expressed his sorrow over the loss noting her contributions would be remembered for generations to come.

According to the head of state, Thongori’s dedication to family law and human rights “touched many lives and left a lasting impact on our society".

He also extended his condolences to her family, friends, and the entire legal fraternity.

Her “kindness, wisdom and service”, he stated, "will be deeply missed and remembered".

“May her soul rest in peace.”

Thongori is said to have passed on Tuesday after a short illness.

Chief Justice Martha Koome on her part said she received with profound sadness, the news of the passing of “my dear friend and senior counsel”, one of Kenya’s most distinguished legal practitioners.

Thongori, she said, was a trailblazer in the legal profession and a passionate advocate for justice, particularly in matters affecting families, women and children.

“We worked closely during our time at FIDA-Kenya, where I served as chairperson, and she led the Legal Department with unmatched dedication and brilliance in the late 1990s and early 2000s,” said Koome.

Remembering her for the service, the CJ explained that her leadership was instrumental in positioning FIDA-Kenya as a formidable force in using the law to protect the rights, interests, and dignity of vulnerable women, children and the family's well-being.

She pointed out that her contributions to advocacy, and family law reform at the Family Division of the High Court significantly impacted the development of family law in the country.

This, while inspiring a generation of legal professionals.

After her remarkable tenure at FIDA-Kenya, Thongori, transitioned to private practice, where she rose to prominence as one of the country’s foremost family law practitioners.

Her commitment to sharing knowledge and mentoring young advocates further underscored her dedication to advancing the legal profession.

During the Supreme Court @12 Conference last November, Thongori is said to have played a crucial role by offering insights and expertise on emerging family law jurisprudence.

“Her contributions to the legal discourse, particularly in family law and human rights, leave behind a lasting and transformative legacy,” she added.