Chief Justice Martha Koome has described the late Siaya High Court presiding Judge Daniel Ogola Ogembo as a calm, humble and respectful man.
Speaking during his funeral service at Lavington SDA Church Nairobi on Monday, Koome said Ogembo embodied the "very essence of a model judge".
"The philosopher Socrates once said, “Four things belong to a judge: to hear courteously, to answer wisely, to consider soberly, and to decide impartially.” Justice Daniel Ogembo Ogola epitomized these virtues, embodying the very essence of a model judge," she said.
She said he was not only a keen listener but also an astute thinker whose jurisprudential contributions will continue to enrich the legal landscape.
This, she said, is especially in the area of criminal law where Justice Ogembo delivered numerous path-charting decisions while serving as a Judge at Eldoret Law Court, the Milimani Criminal Division and as the Presiding Judge at Siaya High Court at the time of his untimely passing.
Koome recalled that Justice Ogembo’s journey in the Judiciary began in 2004 when he joined as a Senior Resident Magistrate.
Through sheer hard work and dedication, she noted, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a Chief Magistrate and eventually a Judge of the High Court in 2016.
Koome said Ogembo's ascent was a testament to his commitment and passion for justice.
"During my visit to Siaya in June 2023 to launch the Siaya Law Court, I witnessed firsthand his exceptional ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders," she said.
She stated that the late Judge brought together stakeholders in the justice sector, fostering coordination and collaboration to ensure the seamless delivery of justice.
"His dedication to this cause was evident in every interaction. Another thing that struck me during my visit to Siaya was Justice Ogembo’s unwavering commitment to ensuring access to justice for the vulnerable," Koome added.
She noted that his dedication to survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) led to the establishment of a special GBV court at the Siaya Law Court.
Furthermore, under his leadership, Siaya developed one of the most vibrant Children’s Court Users’ Committees in the country, prioritising children’s issues and concerns within the justice system.
Koome said his compassion knew no bounds, extending the Judiciary's deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
"The loss of Justice Ogembo is felt profoundly by all who knew him and by those who benefited from his wisdom and compassion," she said.
"May his soul rest in eternal peace."
