Motion Tabled to Name Nairobi Street in Honour of Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee
A motion to name a street in Nairobi after the late Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee, a revered human rights lawyer, was tabled on Tuesday at the Nairobi County Assembly. The motion, presented by Nairobi South Ward Representative and Deputy Minority Leader Chege Waithera, seeks to immortalize Nowrojee’s remarkable contributions to Kenya’s legal, democratic, and social landscape.
During the afternoon session, Waithera passionately outlined the reasons for honoring Nowrojee, who passed away a few months ago. She highlighted his lifelong dedication to justice, human rights, and the rule of law, describing him as a distinguished and patriotic Kenyan lawyer, human rights defender, poet, historian, and patriot. Waithera emphasized that naming a prominent road after Nowrojee would serve as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy, ensuring his contributions are remembered and celebrated by future generations.
Waithera underscored Nowrojee’s commitment to pursuing justice over personal gain or grandstanding. She noted that he often provided pro bono legal services to those in need, particularly during politically turbulent times. His unwavering belief in the sanctity of the Constitution, even in the face of oppressive regimes, set him apart as a beacon of integrity. The motion also recognized Nowrojee’s patriotism, his significant contributions to the rule of law, human rights, democracy, and the promotion of good governance as compelling reasons for the honor.
Born in 1941, Pheroze Nowrojee was a towering figure in Kenya’s legal and democratic history. His illustrious career spanned six decades, during which he served as an Advocate of the High Courts of Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. He also contributed to legal education, teaching at prestigious institutions such as the University of Nairobi, the Kenya School of Law, and the University of Dar-es-Salaam.
Nowrojee’s legacy is particularly notable for his courageous stand during Kenya’s repressive political periods, especially under the one-party regime of the 1980s and 1990s. At a time when dissent was dangerous, he fearlessly defended political detainees, journalists, clergy, and activists. His legal brilliance was complemented by his humility, mentorship, and deep commitment to the dignity of all people, earning him respect as a moral compass in challenging times.
The motion reflects a broader tradition in Kenya of naming roads and public facilities after heroes and heroines who have made significant contributions to society. Waithera’s proposal aligns with this practice, aiming to honor Nowrojee’s lifelong dedication to justice and his profound impact on the nation’s democratic journey.
If approved, the renaming of a Nairobi street in Nowrojee’s honor will stand as a lasting testament to his legacy, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of justice, integrity, and patriotism that defined his remarkable life.