By Kamau Ngugi
Human rights defender and Executive Director, Defenders Coalition
As Rasnah, Thongori and Odede sign off, we remain committed to agitating for gender equality and freedom for all people. We will carry the mantle, even when winds of violence blow stronger
The dawn of every new year is often a critical time to appreciate life and family, reflect on annual goals met or unmet and set new personal goals yet again. Sometimes the inevitable happens even before we start actualising those dreams.
The lights have dimmed for three Kenyan women icons who broke the stereotypical gendered ceiling and whose brilliance, courage, professionalism and leadership qualities are awe-inspiring globally. Their life accomplishments and the records they broke shall be remembered for years to come.
There can never be matching words to craft a heartfelt tribute for such patriotic people servants like Rasna Warah, Roselyne Odede and Judy Thongori who have taken the eternal bow in the first month of January 2025.
Rasna Warah was an award-winning veteran journalist whose weekly columns in the national newspaper captivated audiences for decades. She dedicated her life to using the power of the pen and storytelling to fearlessly speak truth to power. Topics touching on inequality, discrimination, human rights, environmental justice and accountability of state, non-state and United Nations agencies were her favorite when others avoided them.
The cruel hand of death has snatched a warrior who in one of her articles wrote a befitting sign-off: “What I have also learned is that my life’s work has not been a waste, and that my readers love and admire me for my writing. I didn’t realise I had inspired so many people not just in Kenya but around the world through words I have penned. That is a really important thing to know and hold onto right now – to realise that I had a gift that I used well, and which helped others. And to know that when I go, my writing will live on.”
Judy Thongori was a trailblazer in Kenya’s legal landscape and a fierce advocate for human rights. Her death has left an indelible void in the fight for justice and equality in Kenya.
Thongori’s remarkable legal journey was defined by unwavering courage and an enduring commitment to justice. Specialising in family law, she carved a niche where few dared to tread, fearlessly confronting sensitive issues that our patriarchal society often shrouds in silence—matrimonial disputes, children’s welfare and estate planning.
Her work was not just about resolving disputes; it was about restoring dignity, protecting the vulnerable and bringing fairness to the heart of the family unit.
Thongori’s bravery and pioneering spirit in this field led to some of the most progressive jurisprudence in gender justice and equality. Her role in shaping Kenya’s legal landscape cannot be overstated. She was instrumental in the development of transformative laws, including the Matrimonial Property Act of 2013 and the Marriage Act of 2014, which have since enhanced the rights of spouses and secured greater protections for women.
To many, Thongori’s legacy extends beyond legislation. Kenya celebrates her historic victory in litigation compelling the government to implement the constitutional mandate of 30 per cent gender representation in public service. It was a triumph not just for the legal profession but for all Kenyan women. It set a powerful precedent that equality in rights and access may begin as a constitutional right but must be upheld. A reminder of the struggles that accompany social change.
Kenyans today benefit from a more just and equitable society.
Just three days into the new year, Comrade Roselyne Odede, the chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, passed away while receiving treatment. She was a committed human rights defender and champion of global values of democracy, good governance, social justice, equality and the rule of law.
Odede steered the KNCHR at a turbulent period when human rights were trampled upon, including the horrific mass killings at Shakahola, the murder of women and police brutality. Under her leadership, the KNCHR remained vocal and committed to its mission of promoting and protecting human rights despite high-level threats and intimidation.
As the three gallant gender justice and equality warriors sign off, we remain committed to agitating for gender equality and freedom for all people. We will carry the mantle, even when the tide and winds of violence and violations blow stronger and test our resolve.
The article was first Published on the Star Newspaper on 21st-January-2025