NAIROBI, Kenya – Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo was named the 2024 Jurist of the Year by the Kenyan chapter of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ-Kenya) in recognition of her steadfast defense of human rights and commitment to the rule of law.
The award ceremony, held on December 10 to coincide with International Human Rights Day, brought together prominent legal minds, diplomats, and civil society leaders.
Norway’s Ambassador to Kenya, Somalia, and Seychelles, Gunnar Andreas Holm, was among the key guests who lauded Odhiambo’s efforts.
Odhiambo’s recognition comes on the back of her role during Kenya’s nationwide anti-finance bill protests earlier this year.
She and her team worked tirelessly to provide pro bono legal services to demonstrators and secure the release of hundreds of detained youths.
The protests, largely led by Kenya’s Gen Z, were marred by police crackdowns that human rights reports link to over 60 deaths.
In one of her standout achievements, Odhiambo spearheaded legal proceedings against the then Acting Inspector General of Police for contempt of court after authorities failed to release the “Kitengela 3”—three individuals held incommunicado for 30 days.
The case resulted in a precedent-setting conviction that underscored judicial accountability in the face of police overreach.
Speaking during the ceremony, Odhiambo expressed gratitude to ICJ-Kenya and dedicated the award to Kenyans fighting for justice.
“I am deeply humbled to join the distinguished class of recipients of this award before me. Going into 2024, I had a dream—not just to lead the Law Society of Kenya as its second female president but to make an impact and revitalize the society I have dedicated so much of my career serving,” she said.
ICJ-Kenya Chairperson Protas Saende praised Odhiambo’s leadership, urging her to continue breaking barriers in the pursuit of justice.
“Your work has not only advanced the rule of law but has inspired a new generation of legal minds committed to justice and democracy,” Saende remarked.
The Norwegian ambassador, Holm, echoed these sentiments, noting that Kenya’s vibrant democracy remains an anchor for accountability in the region.
He, however, underscored the need to protect civic spaces and ensure the judiciary’s independence.
“An informed and engaged public is the foundation for accountability, progress, and a more just society,” Holm said.
Odhiambo’s career achievements extend beyond her current role.
A senior partner at Ombok and Owuor Advocates, she has held leadership positions with the Federation of Women Lawyers-Kenya (FIDA-K) and is an academic mentor to young lawyers at the University of Nairobi.
Her accolades include being named one of Kenya’s top 50 women lawyers in 2023 and receiving the CB Madan Laureate earlier this year for her contributions to legal practice.
The Jurist of the Year Award, established in 1993, recognizes individuals who fearlessly promote the rule of law and human rights in Kenya.
Against a backdrop of rising political oppression, arbitrary arrests, and disregard for court orders, Odhiambo’s work serves as a beacon of hope for justice and accountability.
