ESTHER PASSARIS JOINS FAMILY, PARLIAMENTARIANS AND LEGAL FRATERNITY TO HONOUR THE LATE JUSTICE JOSEPH MUTAVA

Nairobi Woman Representative Hon. Esther Passaris joined family, friends, fellow Parliamentarians, members of the Judiciary and the legal fraternity at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church to honour the life and legacy of the late Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava.

The memorial service offered a solemn opportunity for those who knew Justice Mutava to celebrate his life, remember his contribution to the country and stand in solidarity with his family during a deeply painful moment.

Hon. Passaris joined mourners in paying tribute to a man whose life touched many people, particularly through his distinguished service in the Judiciary and his contribution to Kenya's legal profession.

The service was marked by deeply personal tributes from members of Justice Mutava's family, painting a picture of a man who was not only respected in his professional life but also deeply cherished by those closest to him.

His mother-in-law remembered him tenderly as her own son — a touching reflection of the bond they shared and the place he occupied within the family.

His son, Stanley, remembered his father as his **mentor and best friend**, testimony to the important role Justice Mutava played in shaping the life of his son beyond the confines of his professional responsibilities.

For his widow, Hon. Jessica Mbalu, the loss was deeply personal.

She remembered her husband as a **quiet and strong man who served as her pillar**, capturing the strength, companionship and support that defined their relationship.

Such tributes provided a glimpse into the private character of a man whose public career was defined by service and responsibility.

The family's decision to ask forgiveness from anyone Justice Mutava may have wronged was also a poignant moment during the service — reflecting the values of reconciliation, humility and peace at a time when the family prepares to lay their loved one to rest.

For Hon. Passaris and the other mourners, the memorial service was therefore more than a formal gathering.

It was an expression of solidarity with a grieving family and an opportunity to acknowledge the life of a Kenyan who made his contribution to public service and the administration of justice.

As Nairobi Woman Representative, Passaris has consistently maintained a visible presence during moments of national significance, standing with families and communities during both celebrations and difficult times.

Her presence at the memorial demonstrated the importance of offering support to families when they need it most.

The loss of a loved one is never easy, particularly for a family that must publicly mourn while simultaneously preparing for burial.

For Jessica, Stanley and their wider family, the days ahead will undoubtedly be difficult.

But the presence of friends, colleagues, Parliamentarians, members of the Judiciary and the wider legal fraternity provides an important reminder that they are not walking through their grief alone.

The late Justice Mutava's professional legacy will continue to form part of Kenya's legal and judicial history, while his family will carry forward the personal memories that defined him as a husband, father, mentor and friend.

As preparations continue for Friday's burial, messages of comfort and solidarity have continued to reach the family.

Hon. Passaris joined fellow mourners in extending her heartfelt condolences to Jessica, Stanley and the entire Mutava family, praying that God would give them strength and comfort during this difficult period.

The memorial service ultimately offered a fitting reminder that behind every public figure is a human being whose greatest legacy is often found in the lives of the people who knew and loved them.

Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava will be remembered for his service, but equally for the relationships he built and the people whose lives he influenced.

As the family prepares to bid him farewell, the country joins them in mourning.

May God comfort Hon. Jessica Mbalu, Stanley and the entire Mutava family, and may the soul of Justice Joseph Mbalu Mutava rest in eternal peace.