In a tragic turn of events, Makadara Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti has succumbed to the injuries she sustained after being shot by a police officer during a live court session. Her family and colleagues confirmed that she passed away on Friday, June 14, at 11:00 PM while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital.
Kivuti was shot in the chest and left hip by Londiani OCS Inspector Samson Kipruto, who entered the courtroom through the magistrate’s door and opened fire. According to reports, the shooting occurred after Kivuti declined a request to release the officer’s wife, Jeniffer Kabiru, who was facing charges for obtaining money by false pretense amounting to Ksh2.9 million, through cash bail.
Following the incident, Kivuti was initially admitted to Metropolitan Hospital in Buruburu, Nairobi. However, as her condition worsened, she was rushed to the Nairobi Hospital for further treatment. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) male representative at the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Omwanza Ombati, made an urgent blood appeal to help save her life.
Chief Justice Martha Koome confirmed the tragic news of Kivuti’s death in a statement, expressing her condolences to the family and loved ones of the magistrate. She stated that the Judiciary Leadership Team had convened an emergency meeting to address the matter.
“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,” Koome said. “The Judiciary family stands in solidarity during this deeply traumatic time and calls for sensitivity and compassion as we share in grief. May Hon. Kivuti’s soul rest in eternal peace.”
In the wake of the shooting, two other officers who attempted to remove the magistrate from the scene and secure the courtroom also sustained gunshot wounds. Chief Justice Koome ordered the closure of the Makadara Law Courts until Monday, June 17, for security reinforcement, with all matters to be heard virtually or mentioned at the Milimani Law Courts.
The Judiciary, in collaboration with the Office of Inspector General and connected National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) actors, will review the security protocols regarding the handling of accused persons in the courtroom.
The tragic loss of Magistrate Monica Kivuti has sent shockwaves through the legal community and the nation as a whole. As investigations into the shooting continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of judicial officers and all those who enter the courts seeking justice.
