Thika lawyers demand justice for slain Advocate Mathew Kyalo Mbobu

Members of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Thika Chapter, on Friday afternoon held a solemn candlelight vigil at the parking bay of the Thika Law Courts in honor of their slain colleague, Advocate Kyalo Mbobu, who was gunned down in Nairobi earlier this week.

The lawyers, led by their branch chair Wanjiru Mwangi, decried the killing and urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to move swiftly and bring the perpetrators to book. Mwangi emphasised that the legal fraternity would not bow to intimidation, warning that such acts of violence only strengthen their resolve to serve the cause of justice.

“An attack on one lawyer is an attack on the rule of law. These acts must not be tolerated in a country that upholds constitutionalism,” she said, adding that lawyers play a central role in safeguarding rights and freedoms for all citizens.

The vigil, marked by prayer and tributes, also provided a platform for colleagues, students and friends of the late Mbobu to reflect on his life and contribution to the profession.

Among them was Collins Wanderi, one of Mbobu’s former students, who described him as a meticulous tutor and mentor. Wanderi recalled how the slain advocate demanded the best from his learners while offering unwavering support and guidance.

“He was always available for his students, nurturing many of us into successful legal practitioners,” Wanderi said, noting that Mbobu’s legacy would endure through the many lawyers he mentored over the years.

The LSK Thika Chapter pledged to stand united in honoring Mbobu’s memory while pressing for justice. The branch also vowed to continue advocating for stronger measures to protect legal practitioners from violence, stressing that no one should be targeted for upholding justice.

As investigations continue, the mood at Thika Law Courts remained somber, with candles symbolising both grief and hope that justice for the slain advocate will prevail.