Chief Justice Martha Koome has expressed her condolences following the passing of John Tito Kunyuk, Principal Kadhi at Nakuru Law Courts, who succumbed to a prolonged illness. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with Chief Justice Koome paying tribute to Kunyuk’s exemplary career and dedication to justice.
Kunyuk began his tenure in the Judiciary in January 2013 as a Resident Kadhi, initially serving at Kajiado Law Courts. Over the years, he extended his services to various stations, including Isiolo, Kakuma, Kisumu, and Nakuru, where his unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law earned him respect across the judiciary and among the communities he served.
In her message of condolence, Justice Koome highlighted Kunyuk’s steadfast professionalism, stating, “Over the years, he served with unwavering dedication at various stations, consistently demonstrating a strong commitment to the principles of justice.”
Kunyuk’s impact extended beyond his judicial duties. He was a distinguished scholar and researcher with a deep interest in Islamic Family Law and its application in contemporary Kenyan society. His intellectual contributions included studies on the history and jurisprudence of the Kadhi’s Court in Kenya. Furthermore, his scholarly pursuits explored the literature and cultural heritage of his Turkana community.
In addition to his academic achievements, Kunyuk was a passionate advocate for community development. He championed numerous charity initiatives in Turkana County, focusing on uplifting the lives of the marginalized. His dedication to social causes earned him admiration far beyond the courtroom.
Chief Justice Koome described Kunyuk as a paragon of fairness and diligence. “His passing is not only a profound loss to his family but also to the Judiciary and the nation. He was a beacon of professionalism, fairness, and diligence, whose legacy will continue to inspire the Judiciary and the communities he served,” she said.
Kunyuk’s commitment to justice, scholarship, and community development left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His demise is a significant loss to the Kenyan legal fraternity and to the Turkana community, which he proudly represented.
As the Judiciary mourns his loss, Kunyuk’s legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative impact of justice, compassion, and scholarship. His life’s work will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.
