Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome has announced the death of another magistrate after the tragic death of Siaya High Court presiding Judge Daniel Ogola Ogembo.
In a statement on October 20, Koome announced the passing away of Zena Atetwe Rashid Jalenga, a Resident Magistrate at the Milimani Commercial Court.
Koome said Jalenga died in the morning of Sunday, October 20, 2024, after a long illness.
“It is with a profound sense of loss and sadness that I announce the death of Hon. Zena Atetwe Rashid Jalenga, Resident Magistrate, Milimani Commercial Court, which occurred early in the morning of October 20, 2024, following a long illness bravely borne,” CJ Koome said.
She stated that the magistrate worked hard and in accordance with the Constitution while serving the country.
“During her service in the Judiciary, Rashid exhibited firm commitment to the cause of justice and the rule of law, working diligently and in keeping with the values of the Constitution in service to our nation,” Koome said.
Koome Condolences to the Family
Additionally, the CJ Koome sent his condolences to her family and friends on behalf of Judiciary.
“On my own behalf and that of the Judiciary fraternity, I extend heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and loved ones,” Koome said.
“We pray that the Almighty God graces us the fortitude to brave this difficult period and rests her soul in eternal peace.”
Ruto Appoints Jalenga
Jalenga was among the six people President William Ruto appointed to be part of the Panel to select a chairperson and two members of the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ).
She was among the 70 judges CJ Koome appointed on August 9, 2023.
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Other Judges Who Died Recently
Her death comes after that of Judge Daniel Ogola Ogembo, whose body was discovered at his residence in Siaya on July 17, 2024.
Ogembo failed to respond to calls and texts from his driver, who had dropped him home the previous day, and was later found unresponsive.
The judge worked throughout the day on Tuesday, July 16, before returning home alone.
According to police reports, his driver said Ogembo mentioned feeling unwell before going to bed.
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The following day, concerned for his wellbeing after receiving no response to his calls, the driver sought assistance to access the house. That is when they found Ogembo’s body.
He was buried on July 29 in a ceremony attended by Chief Justice Koome and other judicial officers.
Ogembo’s death came shortly after the passing of Justice David Majanja on July 10, who died due to complications from surgery.
Additionally, the Judiciary also mourned the loss of Makadara Law Courts Judge Monica Kivuti, who succumbed to injuries after being shot at the court premises.
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