Nairobi, November 3- Former Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki has died aged 72, prompting tributes from President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Chief Justice Martha Koome and other leaders who have praised his contribution to Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions.
Chief Justice Martha Koome described Kihara as a distinguished jurist and judicial reformer who played a key role in strengthening the institutional foundations of Kenya’s courts.
President Ruto, in his condolence message, said Kihara was an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant whose contribution to the development of the country’s legal and judicial institutions would be remembered.
Ruto highlighted Kihara’s role as the founding director of the Judiciary Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of judicial officers.
“His distinguished service included his role as the founding director of the Judiciary Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of Kenya’s judicial officers,” Ruto said.
The President conveyed condolences to Kihara’s family, friends and colleagues on behalf of the government and the people of Kenya.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also mourned Kihara, describing him as a renowned judge and dedicated public servant whose career left a lasting mark on Kenya’s judicial and public institutions.
Kihara served as Attorney General between 2018 and 2022 during Kenyatta’s administration. He also served as President of the Court of Appeal.
Kenyatta prayed for strength, peace and comfort for the bereaved family during the period of mourning.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Kihara dedicated his life to serving the country and made immense contributions to the development and administration of justice in Kenya.
Wetang’ula noted that Kihara’s career as a Court of Appeal judge and later as Attorney General reflected his commitment to public service, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
He described Kihara’s death as a great loss to the legal fraternity and the country, saying his legacy of integrity, professionalism and service would be missed.
On behalf of the National Assembly, Wetang’ula extended condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and the entire legal fraternity.
Kihara’s career spanned several decades in Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions, where he held senior positions and contributed to the development of the country’s justice system.
His death has drawn tributes from leaders across the political and legal sectors, with many remembering him for his distinguished service and contribution to the rule of law.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
