Nation Mourns Supreme Court Judge Ibrahim Mohammed, a Pillar of Constitutional Justice

Supreme Court Judge Ibrahim Mohammed has died after a short illness. He passed away on Wednesday shortly after 4:30 p.m. His death comes weeks before he was due to go on terminal leave. He was set to retire on January 1, 2026. The news has shocked the legal fraternity and the country.

Chief Justice Martha Koome confirmed his death. She described him as a strong defender of constitutionalism, electoral justice and human dignity. She said he served the country with integrity and deep commitment.

Before joining the Bench, Justice Ibrahim was a respected advocate. In 1982, he became the first Kenyan Somali to be admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. He focused on public interest cases and human rights work. He worked with groups such as Kituo cha Sheria and the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights. He offered legal help to the poor and marginalised.

During the struggle for multiparty democracy, he defended activists and vulnerable communities. This work led to his detention without trial. That experience shaped his lifelong devotion to justice and the rule of law. He remained committed to protecting human dignity.

Justice Ibrahim joined the Judiciary in 2003 as a High Court judge. He rose to the Supreme Court in 2011. He served on the first bench to implement the 2010 Constitution. He later chaired the Judiciary Committee on Elections. He also represented the Supreme Court at the Judicial Service Commission. He pushed for transparency and judicial independence.

Chief Justice Koome recalled him as a quiet mentor. She said he believed in principles over fame. The Judiciary, the Supreme Court, and the Judicial Service Commission have expressed deep sorrow. They sent condolences to his family, colleagues and the legal community. Justice Ibrahim leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, courage and constitutional justice.