President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have paid tribute to former Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki, who died on Tuesday at the age of 72. In separate condolence messages, the two leaders described Kariuki as an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant whose distinguished career helped shape Kenya's legal and judicial institutions. Ruto said he had learnt of Kariuki's death with deep sadness, paying tribute to his contribution to the development of the country's legal framework and administration of justice.

Ruto recognised Kariuki's role as the founding director of the Judicial Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of judicial officers. He also acknowledged Kariuki's contribution to strengthening the country's legal institutions, particularly during his tenure as Attorney General between 2018 and 2022. The President extended condolences to Kariuki's family, friends, and former colleagues, praying for strength and comfort during the difficult period.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also mourned Kariuki, describing him as a renowned judge and dedicated public servant whose long career left an enduring mark on Kenya's judicial and public institutions. Kenyatta acknowledged Kariuki's service as Attorney General during his administration, as well as his leadership at the Court of Appeal. He conveyed his condolences to Kariuki's family, friends, and well-wishers, praying for peace, strength, and comfort for the bereaved family.

Kariuki was appointed Attorney General in February 2018 by Kenyatta, succeeding Githu Muigai, who had resigned from the position. Before joining the Executive, he served as President of the Court of Appeal after years of service as a High Court judge and in various judicial leadership positions. Kariuki's career in the judiciary and Executive spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to Kenya's legal and judicial institutions.

Ruto and Kenyatta's tributes to Kariuki reflect the high esteem in which he was held by Kenya's leadership. Kariuki's death has been met with widespread condolences from across the country, with many Kenyans acknowledging his dedication to public service and his impact on the country's legal institutions. As the country mourns Kariuki's passing, his legacy as a distinguished jurist and dedicated public servant will be remembered for years to come.

Kariuki's passing marks the end of an era in Kenya's judiciary and Executive. His contributions to the country's legal framework and administration of justice will be remembered for generations to come. As the country continues to grapple with various challenges, Kariuki's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of dedicated public service and the impact that individuals can have on shaping the country's institutions.

The government and people of Kenya continue to mourn Kariuki's passing, with many paying tribute to his distinguished service and contributions to the country's legal institutions. As the country looks to the future, Kariuki's legacy will serve as a guiding light for those in public service, reminding them of the importance of dedication, hard work, and commitment to the nation.

Key points

  • President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have mourned former Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki, praising his distinguished service to Kenya's legal institutions.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.