Why new AG Oduor holds key to justice for survivors of election-related sexual violence

Dorcas Agik Oduor during her swearing-in as the Attorney General at State House, Nairobi on August 20, 2024. [PCS]

Kenya has never had a female Attorney General (AG) since gaining independence. A glance at our history might make one believe that this role was reserved exclusively for men. Consider the lineup: Charles Njonjo (1963-1979), James Karugu (1980-1981), Joseph Kamere (1981-1983), Mathew Muli (1983-1991), Amos Wako (1991-2011), Professor Githu Muigai (2011-2018), Kihara Kariuki (2018-2022) and Justin Muturi (2022 - 2024). This pattern suggests that the office was structured with a masculine lens tailored to, maybe, meet the demands of male officeholders. But it is time to rearrange those seats because Kenya now has its first female Attorney General.

Dear Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, allow me to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your historic appointment. Your rise to this position is a powerful testament to the abundance of capable women leaders in our country, ready to step up if only the appointing authorities are willing to look closely. This is not a public relations platform, but your seven-minute introduction during your parliamentary vetting made it clear that you are more than capable and prepared for the role. Now, it is time to get to work.