We were deeply saddened to learn about the passing of our friend and colleague, human rights giant Mugambi Kiai. We wish peace and rest to his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
The global rights community has lost a courageous and compassionate defender, unafraid of challenging injustice and searching for truth even in the harshest of circumstances. Throughout his life, he constantly fought for the rule of law and the equal application of justice in Kenya and globally.
As a constitutional lawyer, journalist and activist, he knew you needed a collaborative, holistic approach to ensuring everyone could access basic rights and freedoms. Whether writing in law journals or for the Daily Nation, Mugambi thought deeply and spoke clearly in defense of a more just and equitable world. He was one of the rare individuals who combined a towering intellect with action on the ground. Up until the moment his illness forced a step back, Mugambi was deep in communities across Kenya and East Africa building a local movement to support freedom of expression.
At ARTICLE 19, we were fortunate to include this vital voice in the global community of freedom of expression advocates. He pushed us all to be better, dream bigger and fight harder. Mugambi fought for journalists and civil society in Kenya at a time when they were under the toughest pressure in decades, never afraid to put himself at risk and challenge powerholders if it meant protecting others. He was a key architect of ARTICLE 19’s global strategy, even choosing its name: the Power of Our Voices.
Rest in peace, Mugambi; we continue the fight, inspired by your actions, words, and belief in all of us.
Grace Bomu, ARTICLE 19 East Africa Board Chair
Quinn McKew, ARTICLE 19 Executive Director