Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga's son, Athman Mutunga, passed away on Saturday, October 12, after undergoing 4 surgeries within 2 months.
Despite family support and doctors putting their best foot forward, Athman passed away at Coptic Hospital aged 50 years old.
In keeping with the Muslim rite, the burial was held on Sunday, October 13, at 4 pm in Kitui County.
“Condolences to CJ Emeritus Willy Mutunga on the passing of his son Athman, 50, at Coptic Hospital on Saturday, October 12," journalist Kwamtchesi Makoha mourned.
The family had not yet disclosed the cause of the illness that resulted in the surgeries.
Chief Justice Martha Koome condoled with Mutunga’s family saying it was a blow to them.
“On behalf of the Judiciary family and on my own behalf, I extend our deepest condolences to Emeritus Chief Justice (Rtd) Dr. Willy Mutunga and his family on the heartbreaking loss of his beloved son, Athman Mutunga,” CJ Koome shared in a statement.
The President of the Supreme Court also affirmed her support indicating they will stand with the Mutunga family in grief during the challenging time.
“While words may never fully ease the pain of the death of a loved one, we hope that the family finds comfort in the cherished memories shared with Athman,” she added.
Koome wished the family well amid the incomparable loss of their loved one, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mutunga family, and we pray that Athman's soul rests in eternal peace.”
Kenyans took the opportunity to mourn with the family including notable people in government. On her X account, Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) official Roselyne Akombe consoled the deceased stating, “Sorry for the loss of your son. May Allah comfort you and give you strength during these tough times.”
On his part, lawyer Miguna Miguna in a tweet mourned with the former CJ's family. "Our sincere and heartfelt condolences, comrade Willy Mutunga on the passing of your son," he shared.
