Lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu./FILE
The family of prominent city lawyer Kyalo Mbobu is marking one year since his death, remembering him as a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor.
In a message issued to mark the anniversary, the family said the past year had been filled with grief, loneliness, and longing for his voice, smile, and presence.
“As we mark one year since the passing of my beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and loved one, we do so with hearts filled with both sorrow and gratitude,” the family said.
The former Political Parties Dispute Tribunal (PPDT) chairman was killed in a drive-by shooting in Nairobi on September 9, 2025, while driving home on a Tuesday evening.
A gunman riding a motorcycle reportedly pulled alongside his vehicle and opened fire. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots during the incident.
His death shocked Kenya’s legal fraternity, where he was known for his work as a lawyer, law lecturer, and legal scholar.
Mbobu taught law at the University of Nairobi and was recognised for his legal writing and for mentoring students who went on to become lawyers.
He had also served as chairman of the PPDT, a quasi-judicial body that handles disputes involving political parties, as well as the Business Premises Rent Tribunal.
His roles placed him at the centre of some of the country’s politically and commercially sensitive disputes.
One year after his death, his family said the support they received from relatives, friends, colleagues, neighbours, church members and well-wishers had helped them navigate the difficult period.
“Thank you for every call, message, visit, prayer, word of encouragement, and thoughtful gesture,” the family said.
The family said the kindness shown to them had provided comfort during some of their most difficult moments and reminded them that they were not alone in their grief.
“As we continue to honour his life and cherish his memory, we hold close the beautiful memories, the love we shared, and the legacy he left behind,” they said.
The family also expressed gratitude to everyone who had stood by them during the first year without Mbobu.
They ended the tribute with biblical verses from Revelation 14:13 and Psalm 46:1, asking God to bless those who had supported them and grant them strength to continue through their grief.
