By Jane Mwangi
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.
According to KHRC, He assumes the leadership of the human rights sector “At a time when the soul of the nation and region is under relentless assault from severe governance abuses manifest in gross violations of fundamental freedoms and rampant grand corruption.”
Known globally for his strong stand on civil liberties, Kiai carries the title of “Chief” after he was installed as paramount chief by the Mende community in Sierra Leone, in recognition of his human rights work there.
He has been at the forefront of justice campaigns for decades, leading both at the grassroots and international levels.
Kiai has previously served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
He also chaired the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and was the founding executive director of KHRC.
Most recently, he served as Human Rights Watch’s director of alliances and partnerships, a role that brought him back to an organisation he once served as Africa Director.
Following his appointment, Kiai stated, “Kenya is under attack by a regime that fears its people. But we will not blink. I am committed to guiding KHRC to resist, expose, and push back against any force, be it the William Ruto regime or its enablers, that tramples rights, freedoms, and the Constitution.”
Kiai takes over from Davinder Lamba, whose leadership helped KHRC navigate difficult times. He will be supported by Betty Okero, who continues in her role as deputy chair.
“We look forward to a renewed and fearless chapter in defending human rights and freedoms,” said KHRC.