International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) Kenya honoured Busia Senator Okiya with Vanguard Warrior of the Year Award, during an event held by ICJ Kenya on Thursday, December 11.
Vanguard Awards formally known as the Vanguard personality of the year Awards was first introduced in the 2000’s to recognise and celebrate distinguished individuals who excel in their fields and contribute meaningfully to national development across sectors such as politics, governance, business, humanitarian work, and more.
In a statement, ICJ Kenya said Omtatah has been a fearless defender of the Kenyan Constitution and a symbol of integrity and justice.
“Congratulations, Senator Okiya Omtatah, for being the 2025 vanguard warrior. You are a fearless defender of the Constitution and a symbol of integrity and justice in our nation,” ICJ Kenya stated.
Taking to his X account after winning the award, Senator Omtatah said he was honoured to be feted with the award.
I am honoured to receive the Vanguard Warrior of the Year Award.
— Okiya Omtatah Okoiti (@OkiyaOmtatah) December 12, 2025
This award is not just a recognition, it is a challenge and a call to uphold the law with unwavering fidelity.
I dedicate this award to the judges of our Republic. I urge you: let nothing distract you from the law.… pic.twitter.com/KwUVBoFu31
The Busia Senator dedicated the Vanguard Warrior Award to judges in the Judiciary and urged them to stand firm while making their decisions.
“I am honoured to receive the Vanguard Warrior of the Year Award. This award is not just a recognition; it is a challenge and a call to uphold the law with unwavering fidelity. I dedicate this award to the judges of our Republic.
”I urge you ;let nothing distract you from the law, your decisions carry immense weight, shaping the lives, hopes, and futures of countless Kenyans. When the judiciary stands firm, the nation stands secure. Thank you to all who continue to believe in the rule of law and the supremacy of our Constitution,” he stated
In the 2025 Bobea Leadership Awards, Senator Okiya Omtatah also won the Human Rights Activist Award a category that honours leaders who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to human rights and civil liberties.
According to ICJ Kenya, Omtatah’s landmark victories include successfully challenging the ban on the Butere Girls’ play ‘Shackled of Doom’, contesting the arbitrary stamp duty waiver of Sh7 billion during the NCBA–NIC merger, challenging irregularities in the procurement of PPPs, and petitioning the court to lift the ban on the consolidation of goods by importers, a restriction that had favoured large businesses.
The Busia Senator also fought land grabbing at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) facilities in Naivasha and compensation for people displaced by the construction of Karumenu Dam.
Meanwhile, veteran lawyer John Khaminwa won the 2025 Jurist of the Year during the event.
ICJ Kenya noted that Khaminwa has had a long-time commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.