Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome has led the Judiciary in mourning retired High Court Judge Justice Omondi Tunya, describing him as a distinguished jurist whose decades of dedicated service helped strengthen Kenya’s administration of justice and uphold the rule of law.

In a condolence message on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, CJ Koome expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the retired judge and extended condolences to his loved ones and colleagues.

“It is with great sorrow that I have learnt of the passing of (Rtd.) Hon. Justice Omondi Tunya,” Koome said.

“On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Judiciary of Kenya, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him during his distinguished judicial career.”

Justice Tunya devoted more than three decades to Kenya’s Judiciary, steadily rising through the ranks after graduating with a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1973. He joined the Judiciary in 1974 as a District Magistrate, beginning a career marked by steady promotions and increasing responsibility.

He was elevated to Senior Resident Magistrate in 1982, became a Principal Magistrate in 1987, and was appointed Nairobi Chief Magistrate in 1990 before later joining the High Court bench as a judge.

During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Justice Tunya became one of Kenya’s best-known judicial officers as he presided over politically sensitive cases during the one-party era under former President Daniel arap Moi and the Kenya African National Union (KANU) government.

Among the most notable matters before his court were cases involving suspected members of the underground Mwakenya movement, an opposition network that challenged the Moi administration. His handling of these high-profile proceedings placed him at the centre of Kenya’s evolving judicial history during a politically charged period.

Koome praised Justice Tunya’s unwavering commitment to justice throughout his judicial career.

“Justice Tunya devoted many years of dedicated service to the administration of justice in Kenya. He began his judicial career as a Magistrate before his elevation to the High Court, where he served with distinction, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to the fair and timely administration of justice,” she said.

She further noted that “through his faithful service, he contributed significantly to strengthening the rule of law and advancing the cause of justice in our country.”

As the Judiciary mourns one of its former judges, Koome said the institution stands in solidarity with Justice Tunya’s family.

“We pray that they may find strength, comfort, and solace in the cherished memories of his life and in the enduring legacy of his service to the people of Kenya,” she said.

“The Almighty grant the late (Rtd.) Hon. Justice Omondi Tunya, eternal rest, and may his soul rest in everlasting peace.”

Tunya leaves behind a lasting legacy as a judicial officer who rose from the magistracy to the High Court, serving Kenya through periods of profound political and legal transformation while remaining committed to the administration of justice.