Martha Wangari Karua was born on 22 September 1957 in Kirinyaga County, Kenya, and is a distinguished advocate, reformist leader, and Senior Counsel with decades of experience in public service. She studied law at the University of Nairobi, earning a Bachelor of Laws degree, and later completed her professional legal training at the Kenya School of Law before being admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. She also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from USIU-Africa, strengthening her leadership and governance expertise.
Her career spans the judiciary, legal practice, and national leadership. Karua began her professional journey as a magistrate in the Kenyan judiciary before founding Martha Karua & Company Advocates in 1987, where she built a reputation for defending human rights and promoting justice. She later served for nearly two decades as Member of Parliament for Gichugu Constituency, became Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and emerged as a leading voice for democratic reforms, women’s rights, and accountable governance – experience that continues to shape her vision and leadership.
Today, as leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) (formerly NARC-Kenya) Martha Karua continues to mobilize citizens around unity, transparency, and accountable governance. She is actively building a national movement and has declared her intention to seek the presidency, driven by her vision for a more just, inclusive, and prosperous Kenya.
Leadership Journey: A Few Key Milestones
2022
Historic Presidential Running Mate
Karua became the first woman in Kenya’s history to run on a major presidential ticket as running mate, marking a major milestone for women’s leadership nationally.
2017
Continued Public Leadership
She contested the Kirinyaga gubernatorial race, demonstrating continued commitment to public service and local governance.
2013
Ran for President of Kenya
Karua contested the presidency, becoming one of the few women in Kenya’s history to seek the country’s highest office.
2009
Resigned on Principle
She resigned from Cabinet, citing governance differences — a defining moment that reinforced her reputation for integrity and principled leadership.
2006
Formation of NARC–Kenya
After major political realignments, Karua helped form NARC–Kenya, strengthening her profile as an independent reformist leader.
2005
Led Justice & Constitutional Reforms
As Minister for Justice, she championed constitutional and governance reforms, reinforcing her image as a strong advocate for institutional integrity.
2003
Appointed Cabinet Minister
Following the 2002 transition, she joined government as Minister for Water Resources before later leading the Justice and Constitutional Affairs docket.
2002
Helped Lead Historic Political Change
Karua played a key role in the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC), which united opposition forces and ended decades of one-party dominance in Kenya.
1999
Recognized for Human Rights Leadership
She received national recognition as Jurist of the Year for her contribution to democracy, rule of law, and protection of human rights.
1992
Elected to Parliament
Karua was elected Member of Parliament for Gichugu Constituency, becoming one of the most prominent women leaders in Kenya’s democratic reform movement.
1987
Founded Martha Karua & Company Advocates
She left the judiciary to establish a private law practice, building a reputation for independent legal work and commitment to justice and human rights.
1981
Started Career in the Judiciary
After completing her law studies, Martha Karua began serving as a magistrate in Kenya’s judiciary, marking the start of her public service journey grounded in law and justice.
My journey in public service has been guided by integrity, justice, and an unwavering commitment to the people. Each milestone reflects the ongoing work of building a Kenya founded on accountability, fairness, and strong leadership.
Hon. Martha Karua Book Launch Against The Tide
Official Launch of Hon. Martha Karua's memoir
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In Against the Tide: My Journey on a Less Trodden Path, Martha Karua shares a candid memoir tracing her journey from rural Kirinyaga to the highest levels of Kenyan leadership, reflecting on justice, democracy, and personal resilience. Get your copy today and join the conversation shaping Kenya’s past, present, and future.
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