Maina Kiai Appointed Chairperson of KHRC Board of Directors

The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has announced the appointment of veteran human rights defender Maina Kiai as the new chairperson of its board of directors. Kiai succeeds Davinder Lamba, who has served in the role since 2022, and will be deputized by Betty Okero, who continues her role as vice chair. The announcement, made on Thursday, August 7, 2025, marks a significant transition for the commission as it navigates a challenging period for human rights in Kenya and the region.

The KHRC highlighted Kiai's appointment as timely, noting that he assumes leadership at a critical juncture when Kenya faces severe governance abuses, including gross violations of fundamental freedoms and widespread corruption. The commission emphasized Kiai's extensive experience and reputation as a fearless advocate, describing him as a distinguished and bold icon in the fight for justice. His leadership is expected to usher in a renewed and courageous chapter in defending human rights and freedoms in Kenya.

Maina Kiai, a prominent Kenyan lawyer and global human rights advocate, brings a wealth of experience to the role. A law graduate from the University of Nairobi with a master's degree from Harvard University, Kiai has held several high-profile positions in the human rights sector. He was the founding executive director of the KHRC and served as the inaugural chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). Internationally, Kiai has served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Association and as the director of alliances and partnerships at Human Rights Watch, where he previously held the role of Africa director. His contributions have earned him prestigious accolades, including the United Nations Foundation Award and the Freedom House Freedom Award.

In his acceptance statement, Kiai expressed a resolute commitment to defending human rights, even in the face of opposition from high-ranking government officials, including President William Ruto. He stated that Kenya is under attack by a regime that fears its people, but he vowed that the KHRC would not relent. Kiai emphasized his dedication to guiding the commission in resisting, exposing, and pushing back against any forces that trample on rights, freedoms, and the Constitution.

The KHRC also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing chairperson Davinder Lamba, describing him as a battle-hardened human rights general whose steady leadership guided the commission through turbulent times. The organization expressed gratitude for Lamba's dedication and strategic guidance, while expressing confidence in Kiai and Okero's ability to lead the human rights movement forward.

Kiai's appointment comes at a time of heightened scrutiny of Kenya's human rights landscape. The KHRC has recently raised concerns about governance issues, including a petition challenging the appointment of Duncan Oburu Ojwang as the new KNCHR chairperson. The commission argued that the appointment violates Article 250(11) of the Constitution, which prohibits the chairperson and vice-chairperson of any independent commission from being of the same gender. With the current KNCHR vice chair, Raymond Nyeris, being male, the KHRC contends that the appointment undermines constitutional gender balance requirements.

Kiai's history of bold advocacy includes a notable 2017 petition against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which resulted in a landmark ruling that election results at polling stations are final and can only be altered by the Supreme Court. His return to the KHRC is seen as a homecoming, given his foundational role in establishing the organization and his long-standing commitment to advancing human rights in Kenya and beyond.

The KHRC expressed optimism about the future under Kiai's leadership, anticipating a period of principled and courageous advocacy. As Kenya grapples with challenges to democracy and fundamental freedoms, Kiai's appointment signals a renewed commitment to confronting authoritarianism and promoting accountability.