A solemn ceremony was held by the Judiciary in Nairobi to formally mark the closing of the judicial record of the late Supreme Court Justice Mohammed Khadhar Ibrahim, as colleagues and members of the legal profession reflected on his life and the impact he made in advancing justice, human rights, and constitutional governance in Kenya.
Chief Justice Martha Koome presided over the Closing of File Proceedings, a long-standing tradition within the legal fraternity used to honour departed members of the Bench and Bar.
In a statement shared on Monday, March 9, 2026, the Judiciary said the ceremony also served as a moment of reflection for judges and advocates, reminding them of the duty they carry in protecting the rule of law and delivering justice to the public.
“Speaking during the solemn ceremony, the Chief Justice noted that the tradition of conducting Closing of File Proceedings for departed members of the Bench and Bar serves as a symbolic reminder of the noble responsibility borne by legal practitioners. She observed that judges and advocates are called to serve as custodians of justice, entrusted with upholding the rule of law with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” the Judiciary stated.
The Judiciary said Justice Ibrahim left behind a remarkable record defined by commitment to human rights and the defence of democratic principles, noting that he consistently used his position to promote justice and fairness in society.
“The Chief Justice paid tribute to Justice Ibrahim as a champion of the rule of law and human rights whose contributions to Kenyan jurisprudence and the administration of justice remain profound. She noted that throughout his career, Justice Ibrahim exemplified unwavering commitment to justice and constitutionalism, leaving an enduring legacy within the Judiciary and beyond,” the Judiciary said.
Justice Ibrahim served in different courts during his years on the Bench, including the High Court and the Supreme Court. His experience across various divisions exposed him to a wide range of legal issues, allowing him to handle matters touching on civil, commercial, constitutional, and criminal law.
The Judiciary noted that his commitment to justice started long before he became a judge. As a lawyer, he openly supported constitutional reforms, defended human rights, and spoke against injustice during some of the most difficult political periods in the country.
“Long before his appointment to the Bench, Justice Ibrahim had already distinguished himself as a fearless advocate for human rights, democratic governance, and constitutional reform during some of Kenya’s most challenging periods. He stood firmly with the voiceless, even at great personal risk, including detention without trial. His advocacy reflected a steadfast belief that the law must function both as a shield for the vulnerable and a restraint against abuse of power,” the Judiciary noted.
Throughout his judicial career, Justice Ibrahim became known for his influential rulings, his leadership in court administration, and his readiness to give independent legal opinions when interpreting the Constitution.
“The values he stood for, courage, fairness, empathy, and justice, will continue to guide us. His legacy lives on in the rights he defended, the people he mentored, and the society he helped transform,” the Judiciary said in conclusion.
The Judiciary expressed deep appreciation for the late judge’s dedication to the country’s legal system, noting that his work will continue to inspire future generations committed to protecting justice and the rule of law.