Former Kenyan Attorney General Paul Kariuki died at the age of 72, according to a condolence statement issued by his family and Chief Justice Martha Koome. His death was confirmed on Tuesday, November 3, following his passing on November 2, 2026. Kariuki served as Attorney General from 2013 to 2017, during which he played a key role in shaping Kenya’s legal framework.
President William Ruto and other national leaders expressed their condolences, describing Kariuki as a respected jurist and dedicated public servant. In a message issued after his death, Ruto highlighted Kariuki’s contributions to Kenya’s legal and judicial institutions. Kariuki’s legacy includes reforms in public prosecution and efforts to strengthen the rule of law. His family confirmed his death, marking the end of a career spanning decades in Kenyan politics and law.
Kariuki was born in 1954 and began his legal career in the 1980s. He held various positions in the Kenyan judiciary before becoming Attorney General. His tenure as Attorney General coincided with significant legal reforms, including the establishment of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Kariuki’s death comes after a long illness, as reported by his family. His passing has prompted a wave of tributes from legal experts and former colleagues, acknowledging his impact on Kenya’s judicial system.
