Former High Court judge Joseph Mutava/COURTESYWiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has mourned the death of former High Court Judge Joseph Mutava Mbalu, husband of Kibwezi East MP Jessica Nduku Mbalu.
Kalonzo expressed his condolences to Jessica, her children and the wider Mbalu family following the death of the former judge.
In a condolence message issued on Saturday, Kalonzo described Mutava as a distinguished public servant who served the country with integrity during his time in the Judiciary.
“It is with a heavy heart that I have received the news of the passing of Justice Joseph Mutava Mbalu, husband of our dear sister and colleague, Jessica Mbalu, Member of Parliament for Kibwezi East,” Kalonzo said.
He extended his condolences on behalf of his family, the Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) and Kenyans to the bereaved family, relatives and friends.
Kalonzo paid tribute to Mutava’s contribution to the Judiciary, saying he had served the country with honour and distinction.
“Justice Mutava served our nation with honour, integrity and quiet distinction. He leaves behind a legacy of service in our Judiciary,” Kalonzo said.
He also reflected on the loss from the perspective of Mutava’s family, saying the former judge would be deeply missed in his role as a husband and father.
“But it is at home that Mutava will be missed most; as a husband and as a father, and it is there that our thoughts and prayers are today,” he said.
Kalonzo turned to scripture to offer comfort to the bereaved family, quoting Psalm 34:18, which he quoted speaks about God’s presence with those going through grief.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” he quoted.
He prayed that the message would offer strength to Jessica and her children as they come to terms with the loss.
“May that nearness settle upon Jessica and her children now, and give them strength in the difficult days ahead,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper leader further assured the family that they would have the support of the Wiper Patriotic Front and Kenyans during the period of mourning.
“To Jessica and the entire family: you do not grieve alone,” he said.
“The Wiper Patriotic Front and Kenyans across the country stand with you in this hour of sorrow,” he added.
Kalonzo concluded his message by offering prayers for the former judge and wishing him eternal rest.
Mutava served as a judge of the High Court before leaving the Judiciary, where he was involved in handling a range of cases during his judicial career.
His death comes as his family mourns the loss of a husband, father and former judicial officer who spent part of his career serving in Kenya’s justice system.
Former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama was also among those who mourned Mutava, describing him as a long-time family friend and expressing sadness following news of his passing.
Details surrounding further circumstances of Mutava’s death and funeral arrangements are yet to be publicly disclosed.
The former judge is survived by his wife, Jessica, and their children.
