By Boniface Wambua
in Matungulu
The Makueni lawyer who died after a brutal attack by a police officer was buried today.
The casket bearing the body of the late Onesmus Masaku
Hundreds of lawyers flocked the the late Onesmas Masaku's home in Kyaume village, Matungulu Sub County, Machakos, where various speakers called for speedy prosecution of the suspect.
Law Society of Kenya led by its president, Nelson Havi and Vice president, Carin Kamende joined family, friends and neighbors in the emotional burrial of the young lawyer who had hardly served one year as an advocate of the High Court.
The late Masaku’s mother, Salome Mwikali tearfully eulogized her son as a precious gift which was her only possession on earth. “My son, my strength and my hope. You were the best gift in my life and you brought joy to every part of this family. I thank God for the years He gave me to spend with you. They are unforgettable memories. You will forever remain in my heart,” Salome said in her tribute.
Aged only 27, Masaku was Salome’s only child. Her grief was written all over her face.
Masaku died last Sunday while undergoing treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital where he was admitted after the attack by a female police officer Nancy Njeri. She claimed to have attacked him while fending off an attempted rape.
LSK lower Eastern chapter, led by chairperson Justus Mutia led hundreds of lawyers in condoling with the family and promised to do all they can in order to ensure justice was served.
Mutia said it was sad that Masaku’s death can be traced to a police officer, who by law is expected to protect live and property. He said it was primitive for people to solve disputes through physical confrontation.
“It is quite sad to have lost our colleague in the circumstances that we have. It is a painful experience that we would not wish even for our enemy. There must be more sober ways of resolving disputes other than harming people,” said Mutia.
LSK chief executive officer Mercy Kalondu termed the late Masaku’s death as an act of police brutality and called for sobriety in settlement of disputes. “We lost a great man with a brilliant future to police brutality." Kalondu added.
LSK President Nelson Havi challenged High Court judges to ensure dozens of murder cases involving advocates were expeditiously concluded. “There are about six unresolved murder cases in various High Courts concerning advocates. Half of them, the suspects are police officers, said Havi.
