The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has named veteran lawyer Dr. John Khaminwa as the 2025 Jurist of the Year.
In a statement on December 11, ICJ stated that the recognition comes in acknowledgment of his lifelong dedication to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
Dr. Khaminwa has been lauded for consistently demonstrating courage and integrity, which the ICJ described as foundational to a just society.
“Congratulations, Dr. John Khaminwa, for being the 2025 Jurist of the Year. We hold you up today with pride, gratitude, and immense respect for your lifelong commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law,” read part of the statement.
“You have affirmed, time and again, that courage and integrity remain the bedrock of a just society.”
About the ICJ Jurist of the Year Award
The Jurist of the Year (JOY) Award is an annual recognition by the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ Kenya), presented on December 10 to coincide with the United Nations International Human Rights Day.
Established in 1993, the award honours jurists who have consistently, fearlessly, and impartially promoted human rights, the rule of law, and democracy in Kenya.
The award serves as both recognition and encouragement, highlighting the contributions of individuals who defend the vulnerable and marginalized, uphold constitutionalism, and engage in public interest litigation.
It has become a key event on Kenya’s human rights calendar, providing an opportunity for reflection, networking, and sharing ideas among human rights defenders and legal practitioners.
Recipients are selected based on criteria set out in the ICJ Kenya by-laws, ensuring transparency and objectivity in recognizing those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to justice and human rights.
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John Khaminwa is not a Senior Counsel
Although John Khaminwa has not publicly explained why he has not been appointed senior counsel, many prominent figures have questioned it.
In 2019, Lawyer Nelson Havi, now Senior Counsel, protested the exclusion of veteran lawyer John Khaminwa from the proposed list of Senior Counsel appointees.
“The list of nominees for appointment of Senior Counsel has several deserving Advocates. But tell me, why on earth would Dr John Khaminwa not qualify for appointments?” Havi asked.
John Khaminwa is a veteran lawyer with over 50 years of experience in the legal field.
In addition to his legal practice, Khaminwa is recognized as a champion and defender of human rights.
He is recognized by many for his unique demeanour, boldness, and speaking truth to power despite his age.
The veteran lawyer owns a law firm under the name Khamniwa and Khaminwa Advocates, which he formed alongside his late wife Joyce Khaminwa.
Khaminwa started practicing law in 1973 and has won several cases throughout his career, including very high-profile cases in the corridors of justice.
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High Profile Cases
John Khaminwa has represented clients in several high-profile and politically significant cases in Kenya.
In 2022, he challenged the constitutionality of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) on behalf of the Kenya Human Rights Commission and Kituo cha Sheria, successfully taking the matter to the Supreme Court.
He also represented lawyer and activist Miguna Miguna in 2018, contesting the government’s failure to arraign him over the swearing-in of Raila Odinga as “People’s President” and later challenging Miguna’s deportation.
Khaminwa has defended former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko in Supreme Court appeals against his impeachment and in a Ksh10 million graft case, from which he later withdrew due to incomplete evidence.
Among other landmark cases, he represented Edith Wambui Otieno in the “Nyalgunga” case, which involved a dispute over the burial site of her husband, Silvano Melea Otieno.
He also represented Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in the late 1980s and early 1990s during the push for political reforms and multi-party democracy.
Beyond his legal practice, Khaminwa has consistently advocated for human rights, including challenging the Moi government, which led to his detention alongside political leaders Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia in connection with the Saba Saba Rally.
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