BY SAM ALFAN .
Lawyer Ochiel Dudley has been named the 2023 Jurist of the Year.
The young advocate, from Katiba Institute, a local non-profit organisation, has been handling constitutional and human rights matters, was recognized for his effort in defending for the rule of role in the country.
The lawyer was named the Jurist of the Year by the Kenya section of the International Commission of Jurists for his tremendous efforts in the advancement of Constitutionalism, the respect for the rule of Law, the promotion of good governance, and respect and protection of human rights.
Ochiel joins other accomplished jurists such as Court of Appeal judges Prof Joel Ngugi (2022), George Odunga (2018), Noordin Haji (2021), Supreme Court judge Isaac Lenaola (2019) and former Chief Justice David Maraga (2017).
ICJ-Kenya has since 1993 been recognizing the achievements of one outstanding Jurist dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights each year.
The award was introduced both to commemorate International Human Rights Day and to recognize and honor the contributions of an exceptional Jurist
Receiving the award, Ochiel said being named the Jurist of the Year 2023 is an honour beyond measure.
“Being named the ICJ-Kenya, Jurist of the Year, 2023 is an honour beyond measure, one that I accept with deep appreciation. To be honoured by such an esteemed organisation is a deeply moving experience. Thank you ICJ-Kenya for the recognition. I thank God for the blessing,” said lawyer Ochiel.
Wiper Democratic Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka celebrated Ochiel for his selfless hard work at Katiba institute for the common good of Kenyans.
“The selection by ICJ Kenya as Jurist of the Year 2023 was particularly timely, given the current state of uncertainty both at home and abroad. Ochiel has captured the attention and imagination of Kenyans through public interest litigation that not only breathes life into our Constitution but also asserts the dignity, welfare, and respect for all Kenyans’ rights,” said Kalonzo.
Amnesty International Kenya celebrated Ochiel for his brilliant litigation as Jurist of the Year.
Ochiel was celebrated by MP Priscilla Nyokabi adding that The 30th Jurist of the Year Award Winner is Wakili Shujaa Dudley of Katiba Institute for his legal courage in taking on public interest litigation cases.
