Family remembers Mbobu as gentle lawyer taken too soon

The family of Mathew Kyalo Mbobu is grappling with grief after the Nairobi lawyer was killed in a drive-by shooting on Tuesday evening along Magadi Road.

Known to his loved ones as a peaceful, loving, and caring man, Mbobu’s sudden death has left a hole in the hearts of his family in Maiani, Kilome, Makueni County. Police have described the attack as targeted, though the motive remains unclear.

Speaking at their home, Mbobu’s brother James Maluki said, “Kyalo was a lawyer who was not involved in controversial cases; we cannot understand why someone murdered him in such a devastating manner.”

Their mother, 86, remained silent, mourning her son privately as the family prepared for a postmortem at Lee Funeral Home on Thursday, September 11.

Maluki appealed for justice, emphasizing the need for safety for professionals: “We appeal to the government to ensure this matter is investigated to its logical conclusion, because we need to enjoy our freedom of movement, and as professionals, we need to be allowed to do our work without fear.”

Mbobu had served as the chairperson of the Political Parties Disputes Resolution Tribunal and lectured at the University of Nairobi School of Law. He had worked in the legal profession for three years, earning respect for his dedication and integrity.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) assured the public that a thorough investigation was underway. “Our investigators are working diligently, employing all available resources and expertise to piece together the events surrounding this incident,” said DCI boss Mohamed Amin in a statement signed by John Marete.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) joined in mourning, hailing Mbobu as a distinguished lawyer. LSK President Faith Odhiambo announced a countrywide Purple Ribbon March on Friday, September 12, to honour him and protest attacks on legal professionals.

“In Nairobi, the peaceful procession will converge at the Milimani Law Courts and walk through Kenyatta Avenue to Vigilance House, where a memorandum, with all our grievances, will be presented to the Inspector General of Police,” Odhiambo said. She condemned the increasing attacks on advocates, noting that Mbobu’s murder was not an isolated case. “Too often, advocates have been victimized and targeted for the work that they do. Our security agencies have an immediate duty to act decisively in putting an end to this growing menace,” she added.