Kenya: President Ruto Mourns Former Ag Paul Kihara, Hails His Contribution to Judiciary

What the report says

President William Ruto has paid tribute to former Attorney General Paul Kariuki Kihara, describing him as an accomplished jurist whose work helped strengthen Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions. The remarks were reported from Nairobi and published by Capital FM through AllAfrica on 3 November 2026.

In his condolence message, Ruto said he learned of Kihara’s death with deep sadness and extended sympathies to Kihara’s family, friends and former colleagues. He said the former senior legal officer made an important contribution to the development of Kenya’s legal sector through service in both the Judiciary and government.

Ruto specifically highlighted Kihara’s role as the founding director of the Judiciary Training Institute, saying it helped shape the professional development of judicial officers. The president also noted Kihara’s later service as President of the Court of Appeal and as Attorney General, positions that placed him at the center of the administration of justice.

The tribute came as the Judiciary also mourned Kihara. Chief Justice Martha Koome separately praised his contribution to judicial reforms, institutional development and legal training. The reporting does not give further details about the circumstances of his death, but the reactions reflect his prominence in Kenya’s legal system and the significance of his career in public service.