President William Ruto has mourned the death of former Attorney General and former President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice (Rtd.) Paul Kihara Kariuki, describing him as an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant who made an invaluable contribution to Kenya's legal and judicial institutions.
In a condolence message, Ruto said the country had lost a distinguished legal mind whose service played a significant role in strengthening the country's justice system.
The Head of State highlighted Kariuki's contribution as the founding Director of the Judiciary Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of Kenya's judicial officers.
Ruto said Kariuki's commitment to public service and the development of legal institutions would remain an important part of his legacy.
"On my behalf and on behalf of the people of Kenya, I convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. We stand with them in mourning this great loss and honouring a life of distinguished service to our nation," Ruto said.
The President also prayed for strength, comfort and peace for the bereaved family as they come to terms with the loss.
Justice Kihara Kariuki served as President of the Court of Appeal from 2013 to 2018 before his appointment as Attorney General in 2018, a position he held until 2022.
He was appointed a High Court Judge in 2003 and later rose to the Court of Appeal, where he became the first president elected by fellow judges under the 2010 Constitution.
His career also included pioneering leadership in judicial training, particularly through the establishment and development of the Judiciary Training Institute, which laid the foundation for structured professional development within the Judiciary.
Ruto's message adds to the tributes following the death of the former senior judicial officer, whose career spanned decades of service in Kenya's legal and public institutions.
Justice Kihara Kariuki was appointed a Judge of the High Court in 2003, where he served before being elevated to the Court of Appeal.
He subsequently made history in 2013 when he became the first President of the Court of Appeal elected by fellow judges under the 2010 Constitution.
He served as President of the Court of Appeal between 2013 and 2018, a period during which he provided leadership aimed at strengthening the institution and improving the administration of justice.
