In the somber halls of Friends International Centre, family, friends and fellow judges gathered in sharing anecdotes and memories of Justice David Majanja.
Majanja who was appointed judge of the High Court in 2011, died on Wednesday evening at The Nairobi Hospital, two days after he checked in for surgery. The news has left a sense of loss among judges, lawyers and staff alike.
In a solemn service that was marked by tears and fond memories, Chief Justice Martha Koome led the Judiciary in honouring the life of the judge.
Rows of pews were filled with men and women in red robes, black suits with purple ribbons pinned on their coats. This was not the usual congregation of worshippers but a gathering of judges and advocates united in mourning the loss of their own.
One after the other, tributes poured in highlighting Majanja’s dedication to justice and unwavering integrity.
The CJ delivered a eulogy that echoed Majanja’s judicial excellence and sharp intellect.
“He has left us at a difficult time. We must stand as beacon of rule of law and administration of justice. We can’t descend in the arena of disputes. We must always be seen as a judiciary that’s impartial,” she said.
She recalled how Majanja was at the forefront in formulating policies on sexual harassment to take care of women. “And with that said, we are pained to hear of the femicide cases in our country, women being killed and dumped. That is why we will ensure his spirit of looking out for the weak and vulnerable will live forever. We mourn together. Our giant will rest in power,” she said.
Former Attorney General Githu Muigai eulogised him as a tremendous intellectual and a brilliant jurist.
His voice was steady yet tinged with emotion as he spoke of Majanja’s legacy.
“He was my student. He became my pupil, associate and partner. He felt deeply for human beings. He improved my ability to practice law. He taught me to write precisely short and simple sentences. Fare the well,” he said.
“He was a judge who exemplified a judge on a mission. He always ran ahead of himself. He had a great sense of urgency. In retrospect, maybe he knew his time was short,” Justice Christine Meoli said.
“We are grateful for the time we had and the footprints he has left in our hearts. Goodbye gentle giant, goodbye man on an urgent mission. Your mission is complete,” she said.
All those in attendance recounted his decades of service and pivotal role in shaping precedence and upholding the rule of law.
The CJ was flanked by her Deputy Philomena Mwilu, and Supreme Court judges Justice Isaac Lenaola, Smokin Wanajala and Mohamed Ibrahim. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi and DPP Renson Ingonga were also present. The Law Society of Kenya was also represented by its head Faith Odhiambo.
“His life will serve as an inspiration to all those who seek justice. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” she said.
Majanja’s father on the other hand was astounded by knowing his son left such an indelible mark to many people.
Majanja was later interred at a private ceremony held by the family.
A memorial service will be held in Shinyalu constituency, Kakamega county on Saturday.
