1708. Just Like My Grandmother - Hon. Martha Karua

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Martha Karua is a distinguished leader and renowned human rights defender, known for her integrity and commitment to reform. Starting her career in 1981 as a Magistrate in the Kenyan Judiciary, she later transitioned to private practice, founding the successful law firm Martha Karua & Co. Advocates. Her political career began with her election as the Member of Parliament for Gichugu Constituency in 1992, a position she held for 20 years across four terms. During her tenure, she transformed the constituency by improving access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure through a community development fund, making significant strides in social services and justice.

Karua's work during Kenya's one-party era was pivotal, defending individuals charged with politically motivated offenses and contributing to the establishment of active civil society institutions. As a founding member of the League of Kenya Women Voters, she played a crucial role in promoting women's leadership and civic education. Her international human rights advocacy included participation in UN meetings, enhancing her negotiation skills and capacity to engage with diverse groups. Her efforts earned her the Jurist of the Year award in 1999, reflecting her significant impact on human rights in Kenya.

In her role as a government minister, Karua demonstrated a deep understanding of international law and state obligations, leading teams in negotiating various protocols and reporting on Kenya's human rights status. She was instrumental in establishing institutions like the National Legal Aid and Independent Commissions. Her negotiation skills were evident in her involvement with the Inter-Parties Parliamentary Group (IPPG) in 1998, which facilitated inclusive dialogue on constitutional reform, and in her leadership during the 2008 Kofi Annan-led mediation, which helped end post-election violence and establish a grand coalition government.

As the Minister for Justice from 2005 to 2010, Karua spearheaded significant constitutional and legal reforms in Kenya. Her work included addressing access rights to the Nile waters in collaboration with Nile Basin ministers and negotiating political changes to foster unity and progress. Her leadership and ability to bring together diverse groups in resolving disputes have marked her as a key figure in Kenya's journey towards democratization and the establishment of sustainable institutions.