High Court Judge George Odunga on Friday evening dethroned CJ David Maraga to clinch the 2018 Jurist of the year award.
Odunga was feted with the award by the Kenyan section of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) for his work in promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Kenya.
“His calm conduct has proven to be just what the country required at difficult moments, he has earned his place in history as a courageous, firm and wise judge despite the cost of the high stakes political contest in evidence, the public knows his heart and defends his judgment.
“This year, our distinguished Jurist has been recognized locally, regionally and internationally for his lifetime dedication to human rights for which he fought to the very end,” read a statement by the commission.
He has hit the headlines with his hard hitting decisions. Many have seen him as pro-opposition simply because he has lashed at the government with his court decisions.
While many see him as one who dared to call a spade what it is instead of a big spoon, others have described him as biased and just pro-opposition.
His landmark rulings included handing of Miguna Miguna’s deportation appeal when he directed that the controversial politician be returned to the country.
He also nullified the contentious security laws which the Parliament passed during a chaotic session.
During the ceremony, he was described as an independent and open-minded judge who performs his work with diligence hence has contributed largely to the growth of human rights jurisprudence in the country and beyond.
The Jurist of the Year Award is an annual award that seeks to give recognition, acknowledgement and encouragement to jurists who have consistently, fearlessly and impartially promoted the rule of law and human rights in Kenya during the year.