The 1992 election victory in Gichugu Constituency marked Martha Karua as the first female lawyer popularly elected to the Kenyan Parliament. Her legislative career, spanning over two decades, is defined by a consistent focus on constitutional reform, the protection of women's rights, and a rigorous, often confrontational approach to the democratic processes governing the East African nation.
Early Legal Foundation
Born in 1957 in Kirinyaga County, Karua pursued legal studies at the University of Nairobi between 1977 and 1980. She completed her professional training at the Kenya School of Law in 1981. Her early career saw her serving as a magistrate in various courts, including Makadara, Nakuru, and Kibera. In 1987, she established her private practice, Martha Karua & Co. Advocates, where she notably represented high-profile political figures and human rights activists, including Koigi Wamwere and Mirugi Kariuki.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Legislative and Ministerial Roles
Karua served as a member of the National Assembly from 1992 until 2013. During the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) administration, she held the portfolio of Minister of Water Resources Management from 2003 to 2005, overseeing the implementation of the Water Act 2002. She subsequently served as the Minister of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs until her resignation in April 2009. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to maintaining parliamentary procedure, even when dissenting from her own party.
Presidential Ambitions and Regional Advocacy
In 2013, Karua contested the Kenyan presidential election under the NARC-Kenya ticket, finishing in sixth place. She later served as the running mate for Raila Odinga in the 2022 general election. Her legal advocacy extends beyond Kenyan borders, as she has represented opposition figures such as Kizza Besigye of Uganda and Tundu Lissu of Tanzania. Her international legal work led to an arrest and deportation from Tanzania in May 2025 while attempting to represent a client in Dar es Salaam.
Fast facts
- Born: 1957, Kirinyaga County
- Education: University of Nairobi
- Parliamentary Service: 1992-2013
- Minister of Water Resources: 2003-2005
- Minister of Justice: 2005-2009
- Languages: English, Gikuyu, Kiswahili
- Party Rebranding: NARC-Kenya to PLP (2025)
Questions readers ask
Did Martha Karua hold any position in the Kenyan Senate?
Yes, her recorded positions include Member of the Senate of Kenya.
When did she resign as Minister of Justice?
She resigned from her position as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on 6 April 2009.
Achievements
- Member of the National Assembly (1992–2013)
- Minister of Water Resources Management (2003–2005)
- Minister of Justice (2005–2009)
- Member of the Senate of Kenya
- Educated at University of Nairobi
.jpg)