NAIROBI,Kenya – The law society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo is the 2024 recipient of the prestigious ICJ Kenya, Jurist of the Year Award.
The LSK president received the prestigious award at a star studded event that was graced by Norway’s ambassador to Kenya, Somalia and Seychelles, Gunnar Andreas Holm, among other notable jurist from the country.
In the citation leading to her recognition, the LSK President was hailed for her instrumental role in defending the rights of protesters during the nationwide anti-finance bill protests and securing the release of those arrested by providing pro-bono legal services.
“She offered pro bono legal assistance to hundreds of youth who were detained during peaceful demonstrations, safeguarding their constitutional rights to assemble and express themselves freely. Furthermore, she was instrumental in the establishment and advocacy of the Youth Legal Defense Fund, which was created to provide legal support and resources for young advocates in Kenya.” Said Frank Walukwe, JOYA Committee Chairperson.
As a leader within the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), she has emphasized the importance of empowering young lawyers and ensuring their access to legal representation and resources, including successfully reviewing and reducing Practicing Certificate fees for new entrants into the profession.
She was also widely recognized for the role she played through LSK in leading the prosecution of acting inspector general of police for contempt of court orders directing the release of the Kitengela 3.
“Her efforts led to a precedent-setting conviction against the Acting IG which provides an instructive remedy against police malpractice. Before that, her persistent efforts in highlighting outrageous conduct by police led to the resignation of the immediate formed Inspector General of Police.”
In her acceptance speech, Odhiambo thanked Kenyans, ICJ Kenya and jurists for recognizing her work as she dedicated her award to Kenyans and their relentless efforts for championing for human rights and the rule of law.
“Since its inception, ICJ Kenya has been a torchbearer in this space, offering not just a platform for dialogue but also the recognition of exceptional contributions to justice. Organizing such an event is no mean feat, especially in a world where legal gatherings are more likely to debate amendments to court procedures than to celebrate professional excellence. Thank you for reminding us that there is joy in justice, even if the joy is often preceded by hard labour.” Said Odhiambo.
Mrs Odhiambo joins an esteemed group of 30 other jurists who have received the award since it was introduced in 1993.
“I am deeply humbled, to join the distinguished class of recipients of this award before me. Going into 2024, I had a dream. A dream not just to lead the Law Society of Kenya as its second female president, but more so to make an impact and revitalise the society to which I have dedicated so much of my career serving. 12 months on, receiving this award among revered colleagues, I believe we are on course to making that dream a reality. We may face many obstacles, but none of them will derail our resolve or kill our dream, because just as Martin Luther King Jr. said, “I say to you today, my friends, that in spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream.” She said.
ICJ Kenya Chairperson Protas Saende challenged the awardee to continue pushing the limits of the law in the pursuit of Justice.
“The Jurist of the Year Award has for decades long, honored individuals who exhibit unshakable commitment to these core values and principles. We are sharply reminded of the tenacity required to push the bounds of the law in the pursuit of justice when we consider the accomplishments of this year’s honoree. This award serves as motivation for everyone who believes in the transformational potential of the law and the strength that comes from standing up for what is right in the face of oppression and hardship. In every decision we make, both in the courts and in the numerous communities we serve, it inspires us to keep working for greater justice, fairness, and equality.”observed Protas Saende, ICJ Kenya Chairperson.
The Norwegian ambassador meanwhile hailed Kenya’s vibrant democracy noting that freedom of expression and the civic space must protected to ensure those in power are held accountable.
“Kenya’s vibrant democracy is one of its greatest strength. Like any other democracy, it requires continuous care and vigilance. The civic space must be protected by all and the freedoms of expressions and association and access to information are vital to holding those in power accountable and enabling citizens to participate meaningfully in shaping their future.” Said Ambassador Gunnar Andreas Holm.
The Jurist of the Year Award is an annual award that seeks to give recognition, acknowledgment and encouragement to jurists who have consistently, fearlessly and impartially promoted the rule of law and human rights in Kenya during the year.
The award has been given out on the 10th December each year since 1993 to commemorate and honor the United Nations International Human Rights Day. As an advocacy tool to motivate jurists who engage in human rights work, the Jurist of the Year Award has no equal in the country.
Read the full citation here: FAITH ODHIAMBOJOYA 2024 CITATION
