Odhiambo celebrated as brave jurist for role in Gen Z protests

From the fiery campaigns earlier this year for the presidency of the Law Society of Kenya to her risky and sleepless advocacy for the rights of Gen Z protesters, this year has been bitter-sweet for Faith Odhiambo.

June and July at the peak of the protests, the LSK president was at frontline mobilising lawyers to be stationed at police stations and courts ready to secure the release of arrested protesters and defend their rights.

Sleepless nights became normal for her.

She had to take extra measures to remain safe. Now the relentless and brave work of Odhiambo at the lawyers’ lobby in standing up for protesters is paying off as numerous awards flow her way.

On Wednesday, she was declared Jurist of the Year for her courage in standing up to alleged state excesses.

The Kenyan section of the International Commission of Jurists declared her the 31st recipient of the prestigious award that has been previously bagged by renowned judges and lawyers championing greater causes for the public good.

Besides the ICJ award, Odhiambo was set to receive the CB Madan Award on Friday December 13 at Strathmore University and deliver a memorial lecture.

The award is given in memory of former Chief Justice Chunilal Bhagwandas Madan who served between 1985 to 1986.

The award organisers say it is aimed at recognising Odhiambo’s “tireless dedication to defending human rights, upholding constitutional values, and championing accountability has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s legal landscape.”

As a bold leader, the organisers say, she has steered the LSK through challenging times, standing firm for justice and good governance and that she is a true inspiration for the legal profession and beyond.

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 December 10 each year since 1993 to commemorate and honour the United Nations International Human Rights Day.

Accepting the decoration, Odhiambo said the award belonged to all lawyers and human rights activists who daily risk their lives to stand for the constitution, public good and the rule of law.

“This award recognises the sweat, tears, blood and life of innocent Kenyans who toiled to stand for the rule of law and our constitution. It is them who call out impunity and stand to be counted when duty bearers are overcome by power.”

Odhiambo said not just lawyers but all professionals must stand up for what is right in their profession to ensure that what is right is done for the Kenyan people.