Ruto mourns Makadara magistrate with fierce statement

President William Ruto has called upon the police to safeguard judicial officers, emphasizing that the tragic incident involving Makadara Principal Magistrate Monicah Kivuti must never be repeated.

Magistrate Kivuti tragically passed away from gunshot wounds after a senior police officer fired shots within an open court in Makadara last week, injuring three other officers.

The officer in charge of the police station in Kisumu County was fatally shot on the scene by fellow officers.

President Ruto condemned the use of violence against judicial officers, stressing that such threats are unacceptable and undermine the rule of law.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the judicial community following the tragic death of Honorable Monicah Kivuti, who served diligently as the Principal Magistrate of Makadara Courts," President Ruto stated in a message shared on his official platform on Monday.

"The intimidation, threats, or any form of attack against judicial officers are criminal acts that challenge our legal system," he added.

The President reiterated that the primary role of the police is to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans, stressing that they must fulfill this duty without fail.

"What occurred to Magistrate Kivuti is unacceptable and must never recur. I urge the police to prioritize the safety of our judicial officers as they carry out their crucial responsibilities.

Kenya has lost a dedicated and hardworking legal professional who still had much to contribute to our nation," President Ruto emphasized.

"I pray for strength for her family during this difficult time and that they find solace in divine comfort," he concluded.

Chief Justice Martha Koome also directed that all Judiciary flags be flown at half-mast across court stations nationwide in honor of Magistrate Kivuti. The flags will remain at half-mast until she is laid to rest.

"The Judiciary flags will fly at half-mast from today (Saturday) at all court stations until the late Hon. Kivuti is laid to rest," CJ Koome announced in a statement on Saturday.

Magistrate Kivuti was shot on Thursday afternoon at Makadara Law Courts and succumbed to her injuries on Friday night at Nairobi Hospital.