President William Ruto has led tributes to former High Court Judge Joseph Mutava Mbalu, who died on Saturday after reportedly falling ill, as political leaders joined the Mbalu family in mourning the former jurist.
Ruto sent his condolences to Kibwezi East MP Jessica Mbalu, the widow of the late judge, their children and the wider family, describing his death as a painful loss to those who knew him.
“We stand with Mheshimiwa Jessica Mbalu, MP Kibwezi East, following the loss of her beloved husband, and the entire Mbalu family as they mourn a man who meant everything to them,” Ruto said.
The President said the loss of a spouse, companion and father leaves a deep void in the family and prayed for strength and comfort for those mourning Mutava.
“May God give his family, colleagues and all who knew him the strength to endure the loss and cherish his memory,” he said.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Mutava’s death was reported on Saturday after he developed complications on Friday night following his return home from a burial ceremony.
He was rushed to Makindu Hospital in Makueni County, where he died while receiving medical attention.
His body was later transferred to Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi as the family began preparations for his final rites.
The former judge’s death has attracted condolences from political leaders and members of the legal fraternity, who recalled his years of service in the Judiciary.
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka described Mutava as a distinguished public servant and sent his condolences to Jessica, her children and the wider family.
“It is with a heavy heart that I have received the news of the passing of Justice Joseph Mutava Mbalu, husband of our dear sister and colleague, Jessica Mbalu,” Kalonzo said.
He said Mutava had left behind a record of service in the Judiciary and remembered him for serving the country with honour and integrity.
“Justice Mutava served our nation with honour, integrity and quiet distinction. He leaves behind a legacy of service in our Judiciary,” Kalonzo said.
Former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama also mourned Mutava, describing him as a long-time family friend.
Judicial career
Mutava was appointed to the High Court Bench in 2011 and served at the Milimani Commercial Courts before his removal from the Judiciary in 2016.
His departure from the Bench followed a tribunal chaired by then Chief Justice David Maraga, which recommended his removal from office.
The Supreme Court later upheld the decision in 2019.
Mutava is survived by his wife Jessica, their children and the wider family.