This archive report was first published on 29 November 2019.
Published on November 29, 2019, Cliff Ombeta, a renowned Kenyan lawyer, has built a reputation for defending the accused in high-profile murder cases. With a flamboyant style, he has represented the rich and famous, as well as notorious suspects.
Born and raised in Western Kenya, Ombeta has been in the legal profession for a while, defending a wide range of clients, from embattled politicians to high-profile drug dealers. In a recent interview, he revealed that he draws the line at cases involving rape and indecent assault.
Speaking to Jackson Biko of Nation, Ombeta shared personal details about his time representing high-profile clients. He mentioned the Akasha brothers case, which he believed they could have won, but was marred by unfair circumstances.
Both brothers were recently sentenced in a US court, with Baktash Akasha receiving a 25-year prison term. They had pleaded guilty to exporting tonnes of heroin to the United States and agreed to a plea bargain.
When asked how he lives with the knowledge of defending guilty persons, Ombeta stated that his personal feelings do not matter. He revealed that his job is to discredit evidence against his clients, not to judge them.
Despite facing threats, Ombeta does not fear for his life, citing the example of S.K Ndungi, who was shot at Jeevanjee Gardens. He believes that anxiety gives ulcers, and he wants to avoid that fate.
Before becoming a lawyer, Ombeta dreamed of being a man in uniform, inspired by his uncle, a senior policeman. However, after reading Sidney Sheldon's Rage of Angels, he wanted to be a lawyer like Jennifer Parker, who defended a mobster.
When asked who he'd call to represent him if he needed a lawyer, Ombeta mentioned Kirathe Wandugi, a lawyer he worked with during the Akasha brothers case. He described Wandugi as an unmovable man, someone he'd trust.
Ombeta started practicing law in 1995 and is divorced, citing irreconcilable differences. He does not plan on remarrying or adding to his two children. He is currently in a relationship with a woman from Rwanda.
The founder and Managing Director of Ombeta and Associates law firm does not have a rate card, with charges varying depending on the client. He has defended narcotic cases, which have been lucrative for him.
Ombeta is a fitness enthusiast, enjoying workouts and running full marathons. He also loves boxing and has never consumed alcohol or smoked cigarettes.
