Renowned family lawyer and human rights activist Judy Thongori has passed away following a short illness.
In a statement on Wednesday, January 15, Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Faith Odhiambo confirmed Thongori's passing, describing her as a monument of legal prowess.
"This morning, the legal fraternity mourns the loss of a distinguished member and beacon of excellence. Judy Thongori SC has been a monument of legal prowess and exemplified all the qualities of a professional North Star.
"Her noteworthy contributions to family law and human rights are timeless and continue to propagate a learning curve for many in the profession. The legacy she leaves behind will remain an indelible mark of her impact that lives on among us," she wrote in part.
Odhiambo also offered her message of condolences to friends, family, and the Senior Counsel Bar following the lawyer's demise.
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"We condole with all her friends, family, colleagues, and the Senior Counsel Bar for this immense loss. We pray for divine comfort and healing as we contend with this unfortunate news. May she rest in peace," she concluded.
Thongori completed her secondary education at Kahuhia Girls' High School for O-Level and The Kenya High School for A-Level.
She then pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at the University of Nairobi, followed by a postgraduate diploma from the Kenya School of Law, qualifying her as an advocate.
Beginning her legal journey at the Attorney General's office, Thongori soon transitioned to private practice by joining Lee Muthoga and Associates, where she specialized in company law.
In 2003, she established her own firm, Judy Thongori & Co. Advocates, focusing primarily on family law.
Over her 30-year career, she was acknowledged as an experienced litigator, advisor, and mediator in family law matters.
Thongori was a trained family mediator accredited by the Mediation Accreditation Committee of the Kenyan Judiciary.
She played a pivotal role in the development of the Matrimonial Property Act (2013) and the Marriage Act (2014), contributing extensively to public awareness and discourse on various aspects of family law through media engagements.
Notably, her commitment to women's rights was evident when she successfully sued the Kenyan government for failing to implement the constitutional requirement of 30% representation for women.
Thongori received numerous accolades, including being the first woman inducted into the Law Society of Kenya's Roll of Honour in 2013 for distinguished service in the legal profession.
In 2020, she was conferred the rank of Senior Counsel in recognition of her exemplary work.
