Veteran advocate Dr John Khaminwa has bagged the 2025 Jurist of the year award for being a steadfast defender of justice, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
The legal luminary’s work was recognized by the International Commission of Jurists for having shaped human rights, jurisprudential and the rule of law landscape in Kenya.
During his close to six decades of legal practice, the fearless advocate has risked his life while on the frontline of human rights, with his unmatched sacrifice in the defense of the constitutional making him a key pillar of Kenya’s second liberation.
Dr Khaminwa rose from a modest background to become one of the most courageous, principled and transformational legal minds, often challenging powerful interests and government actions.
The advocate’s courage and sacrifice were immense and defining, especially in the 1980s and 90s when he challenging the former President Daniel Moi’s repressive regime, resulting in his detention with other lawyers.
His first detention was in 1982 following the attempted coup, with the second coming eight years later during the agitation for multiparty democracy in Kenya.
Among his landmark cases include the establishment of the anticipatory bail in 1986, a doctrine crucial to protecting constitutional rights as well as Wangari Mathai environmental cases that secured the conservation of Karura forest and strengthened environmental governance.
Dr Khaminwa has represented among others, pioneer Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, former Minister Kenneth Matiba, former MP Charles Rubia, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Assistant Ministers Martin Shikuku and Mirugi Kariuki, freedom fighter Masinde Muliro, all deceased.
He has over the time trained and mentored hundreds of advocates, many currently service as judges, magistrates, prosecutors and legal scholars.
The advocate, with a long-standing career in human rights and constitutional law, has in the past served as the Deputy Registrar of the Supreme court, Resident Magistrate and Deputy Counsel to the first East African Community.
Apart from political detainees, Dr Khaminwa has also defended human rights defenders, environmental crusaders and public interest litigants.
His outstanding service saw him get conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Haverford University.
During the award, ICJ recognized Dr Khaminwa for risking his life in defense of human rights, giving voice, hope and legal defence to the most vulnerable in the society.
“Few have paid the price he has, carried the burden he has, with humility, grace and devotion to justice… A lifetime of courage, sacrifice and service to Kenya,” ICJ said.
Constitutional and human rights advocate Martha Karua celebrated Dr Khaminwa’s award, terming him one of her mentors in the legal field. “Hearty congratulations to this legal and human rights icon”.
Former Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando said the award was a special one. “Long live the most conscientious lawyer in town”.
