Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim, a pioneering jurist from Kenya’s Somali community, has passed away at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness.
Therefore, he leaves a profound void in the nation’s judiciary.
The respected judge succumbed on December 17, 2025, in Nairobi shortly after returning from treatment in India, following weeks of hospitalization in intensive care.
Chief Justice Martha Koome led tributes, praising him as a “steadfast guardian of constitutionalism, electoral justice, and human dignity,” marked by humility and integrity.
Judicial Career Highlights
Ibrahim’s trailblazing path began with his admission to the Bar in 1982, followed by a partnership at Waruhiu & Muite Advocates by 1985.
However, pro-democracy activism led to his 1990 detention without trial at Kamiti Prison.
As a founding trustee of Mwangaza Trust, he championed human rights, joining the High Court in 2003 and later being elevated to the Supreme Court’s inaugural bench in 2011.
Following the adoption of the 2010 Constitution.
He chaired the Judiciary Committee on Elections, bolstering electoral dispute resolution.
And served on the Judicial Service Commission from 2022, advocating judicial independence.
Landmark Contributions and Challenges
During the high-stakes 2017 presidential petition, Ibrahim contributed to landmark rulings despite illness while clearing backlogs in the 2012 vetting process.
Set for retirement in December 2026, his principled stance earned acclaim from peers like Gitobu Imanyara for courage amid adversity.
Ibrahim bridged advocacy and judging, mentoring colleagues and defending minority rights throughout his tenure.
Tributes and Lasting Legacy
The legal fraternity mourns a collegial figure whose work shaped Kenya’s democratic framework, with ongoing reforms bearing his influence.
Indeed, his legacy inspires future jurists in upholding accountability and constitutional values.
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