Chief Justice Martha Koome has confirmed the tragic death of Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti of the Makadara Law Courts.
In a heartfelt statement, CJ Koome expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
“I wish to confirm to the Nation that Hon. Monica Kivuti, Principal Magistrate, Makadara Law Courts has lost the fight against the extensive injuries sustained during an open gun attack in Court.”
CJ Koome
Magistrate Kivuti succumbed to her injuries at Nairobi Hospital on Friday, following a shooting incident at the Makadara Law Courts on Thursday.
The assailant, identified as Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, opened fire after the magistrate ruled against his wife in a fraud case. Kivuti was critically injured with gunshot wounds to her leg and chest, which later caused the rupture of her liver and intestines.
Despite urgent medical intervention and a public appeal for blood donations, she passed away at 11 pm. Her body has been moved to Lee Funeral Home.
The incident occurred after Magistrate Kivuti canceled the bond for Kipruto’s wife, Jennifer Wairimu, who had been accused of obtaining money by false pretense and had absconded court sessions.
Kipruto, angered by the decision, entered the court through a private door and shot the magistrate. Other officers on the scene responded quickly, shooting and fatally injuring Kipruto. In the exchange, three other officers were wounded.
“The Judiciary family stands in solidarity during this deeply traumatic time and calls for sensitivity and compassion as we share in grief,”
CJ Koome
In the aftermath of the shooting, operations at the Makadara Law Courts were suspended. Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya has initiated psycho-social counseling and support for judicial officers and staff.