President William Ruto and Ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta /HANDOUT

President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have mourned former Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki, who died on Tuesday aged 72.

In their separate condolence messages, the two leaders described Kariuki as an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant whose distinguished career helped shape Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions.

Ruto said he had learnt of Kariuki’s death with deep sadness, paying tribute to his contribution to the development of the country’s legal framework and administration of justice.

“I have learnt with deep sadness of the passing of Hon Justice (retired) Paul Kariuki Kihara, former Attorney-General of Kenya and former President of the Court of Appeal,” Ruto said.

The President said Kariuki would be remembered for his distinguished service in the Judiciary and the Executive, particularly his contribution to strengthening the country’s legal institutions.

“We shall remember Justice Kihara as an accomplished jurist and dedicated public servant, who made an invaluable contribution to the development and strengthening of Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions,” he said.

Ruto also recognised Kariuki’s role as the founding director of the Judicial Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of judicial officers.

“His distinguished service included his role as the founding director of the Judiciary Training Institute, where he helped shape the professional development of Kenya's judicial officers,” the President added.

On behalf of the government and the people of Kenya, Ruto extended condolences to Kariuki’s family, friends and former colleagues, praying for strength and comfort during the difficult period.

“May the Almighty God grant his family strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kenyatta described the former Attorney General as a renowned judge and dedicated public servant whose long career left an enduring mark on the country’s judicial and public institutions.

In a statement issued through the Office of the Fourth President of Kenya, the former Head of State conveyed his condolences to Kariuki’s family, friends and well-wishers following his death.

Kenyatta particularly acknowledged Kariuki’s service as Attorney General between 2018 and 2022 during his administration, as well as his leadership at the Court of Appeal.

“The former Head of State mourned Hon. Justice Paul Kihara as a renowned judge and dedicated public servant whose long and successful career as Attorney General and President of the Court of Appeal left an indelible mark on Kenya's judicial and public institutions,” the statement said.

Kenyatta prayed for peace, strength and comfort for the bereaved family as they come to terms with the loss.

Kariuki was appointed Attorney General in February 2018 by Kenyatta, succeeding Githu Muigai, who had resigned from the position.

Before joining the Executive, he served as President of the Court of Appeal after years of service as a High Court judge and in various judicial leadership positions.