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Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti succumbed to injuries sustained during a shooting at the Makadara Law Courts on Thursday. The magistrate reportedly died on Friday night in hospital. The incident has shaken the Kenyan judiciary, prompting Chief Justice Martha Koome to order the court’s closure until June 17th for security improvements.
“It is with a heavy heart that I inform 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,” CJ Koome said in a statement on Saturday.
Magistrate Kivuti was shot by a disgruntled police officer, identified as Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, following a ruling in a case involving the officer’s wife. The wife, Jenniffer Wairimu, faced charges of obtaining money by false pretence and had her bond revoked by Magistrate Kivuti.
Kipruto, who reportedly intended to kill the Magistrate, was shot dead by other officers. A court orderly and two additional officers were also wounded in the ensuing gunfire.
Chief Justice Koome strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of judicial safety and the sanctity of courtrooms. The Judiciary, in collaboration with the Inspector General’s office, will conduct an urgent review of security protocols in all Kenyan court stations.
“We will take all necessary measures to ensure that such incidents do not occur again,” stated Chief Justice Koome.
The Makadara Law Courts closure will allow for a thorough security reinforcement. All court matters originally scheduled there will be heard virtually, with urgent cases requiring a physical presence relocated to Milimani Law Courts.
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