Former Chief Justice David Maraga, veteran lawyer John Khaminwa, and the late Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee are among six Kenyans recognised in the 2025 Katiba Roll of Honour for their outstanding contributions to defending and promoting Kenya’s Constitution.
The honours were unveiled during Katiba Day celebrations in Nairobi, marking 15 years since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution. The event, hosted by the Youth Congress in partnership with Creative Spills, The Elephant, and Alliance Française, brought together youth, activists, artists, and legal minds to reflect on Kenya’s constitutional journey.
Raphael Obonyo, founder of the Youth Congress, said the recognition was both a celebration of the Constitution’s enduring promise and a tribute to those who continue to safeguard it. “The Constitution gives us power, but equally, we must give it power through our participation and choices,” he noted.
The 2025 Roll of Honour featured a mix of veteran reformists and new-generation activists.
- Pheroze Nowrojee, remembered as “the people’s attorney,” was celebrated for his decades-long fight for justice, especially in defending political detainees and journalists during Kenya’s authoritarian era. His widow, Viloo, received the award on his behalf.
- John Khaminwa, Kenya’s oldest practising lawyer, was honoured for his resilience in championing democracy and human rights despite detention under the Moi regime.
- David Maraga was recognised for his historic 2017 decision nullifying a presidential election, a ruling that cemented constitutional supremacy globally.
The younger honorees reflected the vibrancy of today’s activism:
- Wanjira Wanjiru, co-founder of Mathare Social Justice Centre, was celebrated for amplifying voices of marginalised communities.
- Shakira Wafula, who emerged as a leader during the 2024 Gen Z protests, was honoured for defending detained protesters and organising youth resistance.
- Shikoh Kihika, founder of the Tribeless Youth Movement, was recognised for her creative use of art and dialogue to combat ethnic division and inspire civic participation.
Since its launch in 2024, the Katiba Roll has honoured constitutional champions such as Yash Pal Ghai, Willy Mutunga, Faith Odhiambo, Okiya Omtatah, and Kennedy Odede.
Obonyo summed up the moment: “The Constitution is not just a document; it is a living promise. Its power rests in our hands, and we must determine our future.”
