Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula and Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo have led the legal fraternity to mourn the death of Senior Counsel Judy Thongori.
Thongori was a known family law and an activist and her demise has seen a number of top lawyers mourn.
Wetang’ula said Thongori was a distinguished lawyer who helped in nurturing the future crop of legal scholars.
“I rise with a heavy heart to join my colleagues in the legal fraternity and the nation at large in mourning the untimely demise of Senior Counsel Judy Thongori, a beacon of excellence in Family Law and an unwavering advocate for women’s rights.
“Senior Counsel Judy Thongori distinguished herself as a trailblazer in the practice of Family Law, dedicating her career to not only advancing the jurisprudence of this specialized field but also nurturing the next generation of legal practitioners. Her mentorship of young advocates, particularly in navigating the complexities of Family Law, is a legacy that will resonate for years to come.
“Her relentless advocacy for women’s rights, her instrumental role in promoting access to justice, and her efforts to enhance women’s participation in governance were hallmarks of her illustrious career. Notably, her legal action challenging the government’s failure to implement the two-thirds gender rule stands as a landmark moment in the pursuit of gender equity in our society,” Wetang’ula said in a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
The former Bungoma County Senator added that Thongori’s commitment to justice and equality, her resolute defense of human rights, and her dedication to the rule of law left an indelible imprint on the legal profession and the nation.
“As we gather to honour her memory, let us draw inspiration from her remarkable journey and recommit ourselves to upholding the principles she championed so fervently.
“May her soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.
Odhiambo’s message
On her part, LSK’s Odhiambo said that Thongori’s contribution to society is indelible.
“This morning, the legal fraternity mourns the loss of a distinguished member and beacon of excellence. Judy Thongori SC has been a monument of legal prowess and exemplified all the qualities of a professional North Star. Her noteworthy contributions to family law and human rights are timeless and continue to propagate a learning curve for many in the profession. The legacy she leaves behind will remain an indelible mark of her impact that lives on among us.
“We condole with all her friends, family, colleagues, and the Senior Counsel Bar for this immense loss. We pray for divine comfort and healing as we contend with this unfortuitous news. May she rest in peace,” Odhiambo stated.
Former LSK presidents Abdullahi Ahmednassir and Nelson Havi also mourned the death of Judy Thongori.
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