Tributes to the Late Hon. Mr. Justice Fredrick Ochieng’ Andago

Rest in peace Judge. You will be missed.

Today, we take a moment to honour the extraordinary life of a mentor, a judge, and above all, a person of unwavering integrity and wisdom. My first personal encounter with Hon. Fred Ochieng Andago, JA., was on 10th October 2022, when I joined the Court of Appeal as a Legal Researcher. Over the past three years, I have come to know a model judge with a human touch. Justice Ochieng inspired those around him not only to think like lawyers but also to act with genuine humanity, bringing compassion into legal battles. This was evident in his efforts to entrench alternative justice and mediation as a first port of call for civil disputes. In every decision he rendered, Justice Ochieng showcased not only legal acumen but also moral clarity. Those who stood before him left not just with a verdict but with a renewed faith in the legal system. His rulings and judgments will undoubtedly outlive the limited time he had to influence the legal landscape. Justice Ochieng was not only a judge but also a mentor and a guiding light, not just in the complexities of law but in the broader and more challenging art of living with purpose, humility, and justice. As a mentor, he offered his guidance quietly, generously, and without seeking recognition. While he was principled and fair, Justice Ochieng remained understanding and approachable. Whenever a problem arose, you could rely on him to lend a listening ear. To him, a gentle but firm "no" was always preferable to a vague promise. To have known him was a profound gift, and to have learned from him was a true privilege. It is now our responsibility to carry forward the invaluable lessons he imparted. Thank you, F.A.O. You have left this world and each of us better than you could have ever imagined. Thank you! Nind gi kwe wuod Alego.

I first met Judge Ochieng when I was newly admitted to the bar. He was serving at the High court at Kakamega. His eloquence and firmness intrigued me. I learnt a lot in terms of practice and procedure. When I joined the bench, I encountered the other side of Judge Ochieng. A jovial, down to earth and supportive colleague. He always called me Rusty Nail and mentored me in many respects. A strong man even in the face of adversity. Go well, Judge. You may be gone but your legend lives on. Judiciary and the entire legal fraternity has lost a gem.

The jovial spark in our lives is gone And wherever Fred Ochieng was,, there was laughter and dancing So humorous, so simple, A brilliant mind A true friend and brother So optimistic about life Fred Ochieng, what a loss God’s will - yes, but still very painful Rest my brother

Judge F. Ochieng JA lived with honor, served with justice, and now rests in peace.

I still can't believe your no more rest in eternal piece ..you touched so many hearts heaven has gain an angel

My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Justice Ochieng JA. I met Justice Ochieng when he was at Kaplan Stratton advocates. Later when we both joined the bench he was the Presiding Judge while I was a Deputy Registrar at the Commercial and Admiralty division of the high court at Milimani. He was a wonderful boss, very warm and friendly. He was very diligent in his work and expected the same from the team. It saddens me that he has left so soon. May his soul rest in peace. May his family and friends be comforted at this difficult period. His legacy and imoactnin the legal sector will be felt for years to come

You made immense contributions to the development of the justice system in Kenya. RIEP.

Waaauh. Justice Fred Ochieng. Where does one begin. I knew him from the final days of his practice but knew him better as a judge while at milimani. I argued my early year cases before him and would occasionally appear before him jointly with my boss or singularly. He would encourage me in a fatherly way and even when you lose the case or application before him. Never would one feel like any underhand dealings took place. His judgements and rulings were justifiable. He is one judge who made many a practitioner consider joining the bench. His legacy shall out live his life. MAY HIS LEGACY LIVE ON FOREVER.

My sincere condolences to the Court of Appeal Judge. May his soul rest in eternal peace

We accept the lords doing though with a lot of pain in our heart.i thought one day i will meet with u and share something on mediation being the champion.may the lord continue comforting your fanily.msy your soul RIP

Rest in peace judge

As the then Registrar of the High Court i worked closely with Justice Fred Ochieng JA who was then the Presiding Judge of the Commercial Division.His aimable nature, his ability to bring change through consensus building, his passion and his dedication made it easy to pilot the flagship initiatives of automation and Court Annexed Mediation in the Commercial Division. He did not disappoint. He provided great leadership. All this with humility, with a joyful booming voice and a smile which assured all of us that we would succeed in spite of the teething challenges we faced. The Judiciary and this country has lost a transformational leader, a great Judge and a wonderful human being and friend. We thank God for his life and pray for his family during this very difficult time.

We have again one the brilliant Judge who has greatly contributed to the development of law in this country in delivery of justice. He was humble and social in every aspect. We shall forever forever remember him. RIP

Hon. Judge mentored me in my early days of Prosecution, he corrected and rebuked me with utmost love and respect. Later we became friends, sharing alot on what's going in the criminal justice world. I mourn a great friend agiant in the legal profession. Judge, Rest in the arms of our lord, we shall meet again.