FORMER ATTORNEY-GENERAL PAUL KIHARA KARIUKI DIES AT 72, JUDICIARY MOURNS DISTINGUISHED JURIST

By Elvis Wasike 

Kenya is mourning the death of former Attorney-General and retired Court of Appeal President Hon. Justice Paul Kihara Kariuki, who has died at the age of 72.

Chief Justice Martha Koome confirmed his death on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in a condolence message issued on behalf of the Judiciary.

Koome described the late Kariuki as an accomplished jurist, exemplary judicial leader and dedicated public servant whose contribution to Kenya's justice system and legal institutions will remain an enduring part of the country's history.

She extended condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues and all those who worked with him throughout his distinguished career.

Justice Kariuki served as Kenya's Attorney-General from 2018 to 2022 under former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Before joining the Executive, he served as President of the Court of Appeal from 2013 to 2018, becoming the first person elected to the position by fellow judges under the 2010 Constitution.

He was appointed a High Court judge in 2003 before his elevation to the Court of Appeal.

He also served as Director of the Judiciary Training Institute and Principal of the Kenya School of Law, contributing to judicial education and institutional reforms.

His death marks the loss of a prominent figure in Kenya's legal fraternity, having served in some of the country's most influential legal and judicial offices.