Veteran human rights lawyer Pheroze Nowrojee has passed away at the age of 84. His death has left the legal profession and the country in deep mourning.
Confirming the news, Law Society of Kenya Chairperson Faith Odhiambo described him as a man of dignity, honour and true commitment to justice. She said the country has lost one of its most brilliant legal minds, and praised him for his service and dedication.
According to her, Nowrojee was a symbol of what it means to be a professional with integrity, and his legacy will live on for many generations.
Many other leaders and members of the legal community also paid tribute to him. Former MP and lawyer Gitobu Imanyara expressed shock at his passing, calling him a mentor and a patriot. He said the country should not only mourn but also celebrate the incredible life that Nowrojee lived.
Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula also sent his condolences, describing Nowrojee as a man of great intellect and a defender of the constitution. He recalled their friendship and praised him for being a humble yet powerful voice in law and justice.
Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan also shared his sorrow, saying that Nowrojee was a fearless legal mind and political activist who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and democracy.
He added that Nowrojee’s contribution to the country was immeasurable and his legacy would continue to inspire those fighting for equality and rights.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo referred to him as a true courtroom giant who always gave his best in legal arguments.Nowrojee was not only a lawyer but also a writer and a poet. He authored the book A Kenyan Journey and regularly wrote opinion articles to educate the public on legal matters.
He became widely known during the 2017 presidential election petition, where he gave a strong legal submission that many believed played a key role in the Supreme Court’s decision to annul the election results. His calm and respectful approach in court earned him respect from both colleagues and the public.
Born in Kenya, Nowrojee was inspired to pursue law after watching his father, AR Kapila, defend Mau Mau suspects in the 1953 Lari massacre trials. He was only 13 at the time but the experience left a permanent impression on him.
He later studied law in India, Tanzania, and at Yale in the United States. He was called to the Bar in London in 1965, and became an advocate in Kenya in 1967. He also registered as a lawyer in Tanzania and Zanzibar.Throughout his career, he defended the constitution and stood up against injustices, including during the Moi regime.
One of his proudest moments was helping to lift the ban on the Nairobi Law Monthly magazine, which had been shut down by the government in 1990.
He described the 2017 court win against election rigging as a moment that marked the triumph of constitutional supremacy in Kenya. Away from the courtroom, Nowrojee was a father of three and enjoyed reading, painting, and writing.
Those who knew him say he was gentle, kind, and full of wisdom. His death has left a huge gap in the legal profession, but his life’s work will continue to inspire. Tributes are still pouring in from across the country as people remember a man who gave his all to defend the rights of others.
Leaked.co.ke joins the nation in mourning the passing of Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee and extends heartfelt condolences to his family.
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