NAIROBI, Kenya, Apr 5 – Nairobi, Kenya – Celebrated human rights defender and Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee is dead.
Nowrojee, revered for his decades-long commitment to justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, passed away on Saturday, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across Kenya’s legal and political spheres.
Rarieda MP and lawyer Dr Otiende Amolo mourned him as a “quintessential advocate,” saying on X: “Quite saddened to learn that my senior, Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee has passed on! A quintessential advocate who presented the best in court advocacy. Rest in power, Senior!”
Veteran lawyer and former MP Gitobu Imanyara added: “What a loss to the legal profession and to this country. As we mourn his death, let us also celebrate an exemplary life well lived.”
President William Ruto described Nowrojee as a “decorated constitutional lawyer and veteran defender of human rights,” adding that he was “admired for his unfailing graciousness, erudition and solidarity with the ordinary citizen.”
“With his death, the nation has lost a brilliant legal mind who has made undeniable positive contributions to the development of our vibrant democracy and human rights culture,” the President said, sending condolences to his family and loved ones.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who worked closely with Nowrojee in the fight for civil and political freedoms, said: “His passing marks the end of a historic era and leaves a gap that will be almost impossible to fill.”
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen remembered him as “a towering figure in the Kenyan and East African legal landscape,” whose unwavering voice in defence of human rights inspired many in the legal profession.
The Law Society of Kenya described Nowrojee as “one of the most eminent legal minds and moral beacons of our time,”honouring his legacy as a teacher, mentor, poet, and unyielding defender of justice.
Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga hailed him as a “gentle giant, an inspiring legal mind, and a mentor to many,” whose impact was felt in high-profile constitutional and human rights cases across East Africa.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said: “Pheroze’s life was a fitting example of dedication to service… He set the bar.”
Nowrojee mentored generations of lawyers and played a critical role in Kenya’s constitutional and democratic journey. His legacy is deeply woven into the nation’s legal and human rights history.
