Chief Justice Martha Koome on Tuesday announced the death of Benard Kipyegon Rugut, a Principal Magistrate at the Molo Law Courts in Nakuru County.
In a statement on Tuesday, October 22, CJ Koome sent her condolences to the principal magistrate’s family including his children and the deceased’s wife Purity Koskey who is also a Judge at the Kabarnet Law Courts.
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I announce the untimely passing of Bernard Kipyegon Rugut, Principal Magistrate at Molo Law Courts,” Koome said.
His death comes a day after Koome announced the passing away of Zena Atetwe Rashid Jalenga, a Resident Magistrate at the Milimani Commercial Court.
Koome said Jalenga died in the morning of Sunday, October 20, 2024, after a long illness.
Koome sent his personal condolences, as well as those of the Judiciary, to Purity Koskey Rugut, the spouse of Rugut from Kabarnet Law Courts, as well as to the entire family and friends.
“On behalf of the Judiciary, and on my own behalf, I wish to express our deepest condolences to his spouse, Purity Koskey Rugut of Kabarnet Law Courts, their children, the entire family, relatives, friends, and colleagues of Hon. Rugut during this profoundly difficult time,” Koome said.
Rugut began his distinguished career with the Judiciary on July 13, 2012, when he was appointed as a Resident Magistrate and posted to Bondo Law Courts.
Koome said Rugut has served with steadfast dedication at various stations, including Ndhiwa and Kericho Law Courts, consistently demonstrating a strong commitment to the principles of justice.
Most recently, since May 2, 2023, he served as Principal Magistrate at Molo Law Courts.
The CJ mourned Rugut as a magistrate who exemplified the virtues of diligence, fairness, and professionalism in all his judicial duties throughout his career.
According to the CJ, Rugut’s death is a blow to the family, Judiciary and the people he has served.
“His passing is not only a significant loss to his family but also to the Judiciary and the communities he faithfully serves,” Koome said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones as we mourn the loss of a dedicated judicial officer whose legacy of service will continue to inspire us all. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
