The President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Faith Odhiambo, has been honored with the esteemed ICJ Kenya Jurist of the Year Award at a high-profile ceremony attended by distinguished figures, including Gunnar Andreas Holm, Norway’s Ambassador to Kenya, Somalia, and Seychelles.
The event, which celebrated the achievements of legal professionals committed to upholding the rule of law and human rights in Kenya, drew notable jurists from across the country.
In a citation that preceded the award, Odhiambo was praised for her pivotal role in defending the rights of demonstrators during the nationwide protests against the Finance Bill.
She provided pro bono legal services to secure the release of several individuals arrested during the protests, ensuring that their constitutional rights were respected.
Odhiambo also received recognition for her leadership within LSK in prosecuting the acting Inspector General of Police for contempt of court.
This case, involving the unlawful detention of the Kitengela 3, resulted in a landmark conviction, setting a significant legal precedent against police malpractice.
The ruling serves as a crucial remedy for holding law enforcement accountable to court orders.
During her acceptance speech, a visibly moved Faith Odhiambo expressed her gratitude to ICJ Kenya, her fellow jurists, and the people of Kenya for their unwavering commitment to justice and human rights.
She dedicated her award to the Kenyan people, acknowledging their tireless efforts to uphold the rule of law in the face of numerous challenges.
ICJ Kenya Chairperson, Protas Saende, congratulated Odhiambo on her achievements and urged her to continue advancing the cause of justice.
He emphasized the importance of pushing the boundaries of the law to ensure a fair and just society for all.
Norwegian Ambassador Gunnar Andreas Holm, who also addressed the gathering, lauded Kenya’s vibrant democracy.
He underscored the critical need to protect freedoms of expression and civic space, which are vital for ensuring that public officials are held accountable.
His remarks highlighted the importance of safeguarding the rights of individuals and promoting transparency within governance.
The Jurist of the Year Award is an annual honor conferred by ICJ Kenya to jurists who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the rule of law, human rights, and justice.
The award is presented on December 10th each year, coinciding with the United Nations International Human Rights Day, serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect fundamental rights.
Since its inception in 1993, the Jurist of the Year Award has become a key tool for inspiring legal professionals to continue their work in promoting human rights, offering a much-needed platform for recognizing those who contribute to the advancement of justice in Kenya.
