The country is reeling from the news that Makadara Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti died around midnight on June 14, 2024, from injuries sustained in a shocking courtroom shooting.
She passed away while receiving specialized treatment at Nairobi Hospital after a senior police officer opened fire during a court session. The shocking incident has raised urgent concerns about the security of judicial officers.
Chief Justice Martha Koome confirmed Magistrate Kivuti’s death, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
“It is with great sorrow and with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of Principal Magistrate Hon. Monica Kivuti who succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained on June 13 2024 whle holding an active court session at the Makadara Law Courts.” Justice Koome stated.
“The Judiciary family stands in solidarity during this deeply traumatic time and calls for sensitivity and compassion as we share in grief.”
Hon. Monica Kivuti Shooting Incident
The tragic event occurred on Thursday when Senior Police Officer Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto opened fire in the courtroom.
Kipruto’s wife was facing charges of obtaining money under false pretenses, and Magistrate Kivuti had revoked her bail due to her absconding.
Kipruto, in a fit of rage, shot Kivuti multiple times injuring her in the arm and pelvic region , leading to her fatal injuries.
Kipruto was subsequently shot dead by responding officers. In the chaos, three officers were also injured but are reported to be in stable condition. According to a source at Nairobi Hospital, Kivuti succumbed to her injuries on Friday night, having sustained severe gunshot wounds to her chest and leg.
The incident has prompted the closure of Makadara Law Courts until June 24 as authorities investigate the circumstances leading to the attack. The national police service has stated that Kipruto’s presence in the courtroom was unauthorized, and investigations are ongoing to uncover more details.
Law Society of Kenya Statement
The Law Society of Kenya has expressed grave concern over the attack, highlighting it as part of a disturbing trend of increasing threats and violence against judicial officers.
“The death of Hon. Kivuti must not be allowed to be just another statistic of the imminent risks of ignoring the credible danger faced by Judicial Officers and Advocates in their line of duty.” LSK President Faith Odhiambo stated.
They emphasized the necessity of immediate action to enhance the safety of judicial personnel.
The Judiciary Responds
In response, the judiciary has pledged to strengthen security measures across all courts. Justice Koome assured judicial staff and the public of their commitment to ensuring safety and security within the judicial system.
The Judiciary has pledged to offer psycho-social support to help its affected members cope with the tragic loss of Monica Kivuti.
CJ Koome also announced the formation of a Judiciary funeral planning commitee to help the family of the deceased Hon. Kivuto prepare a befittting send off.
By Vivian K.