Tributes pour in honouring judge Majanja's dedication to justice

In a profound loss to the Kenyan legal fraternity, High Court Judge Justice David Majanja passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at a Nairobi hospital, where he was undergoing treatment after surgery.

The news announced by Chief Justice Martha Koome has sent shockwaves through the country, with leaders, judiciary officers, and lawyers expressing deep sorrow and paying tribute to his remarkable contributions.

President William Ruto led the nation in mourning: “I have learned with great sorrow about the death of the David Majanja, who was a judge of the High Court of Kenya, and a member of the Judicial Service Commission, which occurred earlier today,” Ruto said.

He added: “On behalf of the government, I extend condolences to Majanja’s family and friends and the Judiciary. May Almighty God grant you the strength to bear this loss, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also mourned Justice Majanja, terming him a “prolific gifted mind who immensely contributed to redefining the legal profession and the justice system of our country in diverse ways.”

CJ Koome who is also the chair of the Judicial Service Commission mourned him saying:

“On behalf of the Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission, it is with profound sadness that I announce the sudden passing of Justice David Amilcar Shikomera Majanja.

We are all heartbroken. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Judiciary and JSC fraternity during this time of deep sorrow and sadness” CJ Koome added.

In a heartfelt statement on Thursday afternoon, the JSC praised the Judge saying he played a leading role in the development of various policies and programmes, including the Judicial Service (Code of Conduct and Ethics) Regulations, 2020.

“Throughout his years of service at the High Court and the JSC, Justice Majanja was passionate about preserving the rule of law and ensuring the fair administration of justice. He dedicated his life to advancing these values, committed to applying the law fairly and impartially to ensure equal justice for all,” JSC stated.

The members of JSC added that Majanja upheld the dream entrusted to him and made significant contributions to the cause of justice and the development of our jurisprudence.

“The Judiciary, the JSC, and his family are working together on the funeral arrangements and the Judiciary will hold Closing of the File Proceedings along with other memorial services in his honour,” Koome stated.

She further said that they will ensure that the public will be kept informed of the planned funeral arrangements to provide an opportunity for those who wish to pay their last respects to the departed judge.

Judges and magistrates based in Nairobi also held a solemn service at Milimani Law courts conferences where the eulogised Majanja as diligent saying he was passionate in his work.
Led by Justice Christine Meoli who worked with Majanja at the Milimani Civil division described him as a shining light, beacon of justice, and pillar of strength

On her side Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo in her tributes said; It is with deep remorse that I have learnt of the passing on of High Court Judge and JSC Commissioner, Justice David Majanja. It is a profoundly sad day for Kenya and the legal fraternity as we have lost one of the fine minds on our bench,” Odhiambo said.

“On behalf of the Law Society of Kenya and myself, I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the Kenya judiciary fraternity. May the good judge rest in peace,”

Led by Senior counsel John Khaminiwa,Danstan Omari, Shadrack Wambui and others eulogised Majanja as a great judge who upheld and defended the jurisprudence of human rights in his rulings.

“When the 2010 Constitution came into enforcement we are happy that the late Justice Majanja was the first judge to deal with the interpretation of the law, constitutionalism, and upholding human rights,” Khaminiwa stated. He further described Majanja as an astute Judge who was flexible and would deliver judgments on time,” Khaminiwa stated.

Omari on his part, described the late Judge as humble and a heroic judicial officer who worked with integrity.

Human rights lawyer Soyinka Lempaa who said that he was saddened by his passing hailed Majanja for setting a solid foundation for the Constitutional division.

“It is sad that he has passed on, as a country we have lost a brilliant judge, legal mind, and a scholar. He has lived his 50-plus years plus purposefully and we can only hope that he reincarnates as a superior being,” Lempaa stated.

Shadrack Wambui an advocate and founder of Sheria Mtaani revealed that the late Judge took part in a lot of charity work where he supported youths who live in slum areas.

“Justice Majanja was very instrumental in my legal clinical, dubbed Sheria Mtaani. I hope the judiciary will fill the gap left by the demise,” Wambui stated.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga took to her social media to mourn Justice Majanja saying; “My heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, entire Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission on the passing of Judge David Majanja. His dedication and commitment to the legal profession have left an indelible mark on the justice system in our country and in Homa Bay where he served. May his spirit continue to guide and inspire all those who follow in his footsteps. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”

Senate Majority Whip, Senator for Kakamega Boni Khalwale paid his tributes saying; “Our favourite son, Justice David Majanja, of the Abakakamega community, has just died!” Khalwale said.

 Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka also paid his tribute saying: “Heaven has yet again harvested a great soul, the son of this great Nation, Justice David Majanja. His dedication to service in the judiciary was distinct and unparalleled. May the family find solace in the Lord.”

Harambee star footballer Michail Olunga mourned him saying: “For dust you are and to dust you shall return. Rest in Peace Hon Justice David Majanja.”

“I’m greatly disturbed by news of the demise of my colleague, friend, and distinguished jurist, Justice David Majanja! A scholar of integrity, and a judge as judicious and fair as the best of them.”

Justice Majanja was first appointed as Judge of the High Court in 2011 and was until his death stationed at the Milimani Civil Division court.