The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has announced the appointment of veteran human rights defender Chief Maina Kiai as the new Chairperson of its Board of Directors.
Kiai, a globally respected human rights advocate, steps into the leadership role at a time when Kenya and the broader region are facing increasing threats to civil liberties, democratic governance, and accountability.
The KHRC hailed the appointment as a return to fearless and principled leadership in the face of what it describes as “relentless assaults on the soul of the nation” through widespread corruption and systemic violations of fundamental rights.
A renowned international figure, Kiai holds the honorary title of Chief following his installation as paramount chief of the Mende community in Sierra Leone in recognition of his human rights work.
He brings decades of experience, including service as the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Association, founding Executive Director of KHRC, and inaugural Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
Most recently, he was the Director of Alliances and Partnerships at Human Rights Watch, a role he held after previously serving as the organization’s Africa Director.
In a bold statement following his appointment, Kiai said:
“Kenya is under attack by a regime that fears its people. But we will not blink. I am committed to guiding KHRC to resist, expose, and push back against any force be it the William Ruto regime or its enablers that tramples rights, freedoms, and the Constitution.”
Kiai takes over from Davinder Lamba, a stalwart in the human rights sector whose leadership steered KHRC through a challenging period.
The Commission expressed deep gratitude for Lamba’s steadfast commitment and strategic guidance during his tenure.
Assisting Kiai in his new role is Betty Okero, who continues to serve as Vice Chairperson of the Board. Okero served alongside Lamba and brings continuity, experience, and resilience to the leadership team.
As KHRC marks over 30 years of defending human rights, the appointment of Kiai signals a renewed chapter of bold advocacy, civic resistance, and principled leadership.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting human rights–centered governance and accountability at all levels of society.
Current Board Members:
- Maina Kiai (Chair)
- Betty Okero (Vice Chair)
- Davis Malombe (Executive Director)
- Nerima Wako
- Kamoinet Mutai
- Davinder Lamba
- Gabriel Dolan
- Warutere Dibaonyo
- Lorna Dias
