Advocates play key role in preserving constitutional order — Kalonzo

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka says lawyers should hold a central role in preserving the country’s constitution and its democratic ideals.

Kalonzo said lawyers have in the past played a key role in pushing for accountability, rule of law and strengthening institutions; a mission they should now abandon.

“Looking ahead, especially toward 2026, our profession will and should occupy a central role in preserving Kenya’s constitutional order. Kenya will look to us, as it has done before, to help keep the country steady,” he said.

The former Vice President was speaking on Wednesday during a cocktail to honour 54 advocates who have been conferred with Senior Counsel (SC) ranks.

“Let me thank each of you for your dedication to the rule of law and your commitment to breathing life into our Constitution. It is one of the most admired in the world, not only because of its drafting, but because we continue to live by it and defend it. Those who honour it always serve Kenya well.”

Other than senior lawyers, Kalonzo paid tribute to young advocates whom he praised for their role in the 2024 Gen Z demonstrations, saying the youngsters are making their contribution to society in a positive way.  

“Beyond honour and tradition, we must show great respect for our Junior Bar. These young advocates have stepped forward courageously, often pro bono, to represent the voices of Gen Z and Millennials who took to the streets armed not with briefs, but with the Constitution, a bottle of water, and our national flag,” he said.

“They demanded accountability, justice, and a nation true to its founding principles. That courage deserves our admiration and support.”

He used the opportunity to pay homage to advocates, some of whom are deceased, for their role in jurisprudence, governance and expanding the democratic space

“We remember, with deep respect, the late Judy Thongori, SC, a formidable advocate for family rights and the protection of women and children. Hers was a life of principle and quiet courage. Kenya is better because she chose to serve and advocate for our children and for gender justice.”

Kalonzo also paid tribute to Martha Karua, former Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, whose leadership and dedication were instrumental in drafting and guiding the Constitution of Kenya, the late Justice and Constitutional Minister Mutula Kilonzo, and the late Pheroze Nowrojee, who ensured the people’s voices were solidly reflected in the living document that is now Kenya’s Constitution.

Former Busia Senator Amos Wako, who also served as the country’s Attorney General and lawyer Paund Ndung’u of the famous Ndung’u Land report were also honoured by the Wiper leader.  

“Their contributions endure, not just in law reports, but in the values they instilled in our profession and in our nation.”

He added, “In that regard, the current IEBC Chair, Erastus Edung Ethekon, a son of Turkana, carries a significant responsibility. Should he deliver a free, fair, and credible General Election 2027, worthy of 2002, he will stand tall among those deserving of future consideration.”