Nairobi, Kenya– A respected Kenyan lawyer, Mathew Kyalo Mbobu, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting on a busy street in Nairobi.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when a gunman on a motorcycle pulled alongside Mbobu’s vehicle and opened fire. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, and the police are currently investigating the matter.
Mbobu, a former head of a political parties’ dispute tribunal, was driving home when the attack took place near the Lang’ata-Magadi road junction.
A gruesome video shared online shows the lawyer’s bloodied body slouched over the steering wheel of his car. The police have appealed to the public to remain calm and report any information that can help the case.
“We are determined to provide the justice that [Mr. Mbobu] and his loved ones deserve,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations said in a statement.
The Law Society of Kenya has described the killing as “abhorrent” and called for swift and conclusive action to be taken. “Too often, advocates have been victimized and targeted for the work that they do,” LSK president Faith Odhiambo said in a statement.
The society expressed concern over threats faced by lawyers, adding that the killing had “all markings of a predetermined assassination”.
Mbobu was a law lecturer at the University of Nairobi and was known for his influential legal writing and mentoring students into successful lawyers.
He was a previous chairman of the Political Parties’ Dispute Tribunal and the Business Rent Premises Tribunal, which would have put him at the heart of resolving contentious political and commercial disputes.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who was taught by Mbobu at university, described him as a “distinguished advocate, an outstanding law scholar, and a dedicated public servant”.
The police are investigating the shooting, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has called on the public to provide any information that can help the case.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said the “cold-blooded killing” of Mr. Mbobu had “left us all devastated and in deep shock”. “We expect the police to carry out speedy and thorough investigations to unearth the reason and culprits behind this heinous crime and ensure justice is served,” he said.
The killing of Mbobu bears similarities to the death of Charles Ong’ondo Were, a member of parliament who was shot dead in similar circumstances in April.
Police then said several suspects had been arrested following what appeared to be a “targeted and predetermined” assassination. Some of the suspects have since been charged.
The killing of Mathew Kyalo Mbobu has sent shockwaves across Kenya, with many calling for justice and an end to the violence that has plagued the country.
As the investigation continues, the legal fraternity and the public are waiting with bated breath for answers and for those responsible to be brought to book.
The incident highlights the need for improved security measures and a more effective justice system to protect citizens, particularly those in high-profile positions.