Dr Nancy Baraza made history as Kenya’s first Deputy Chief Justice following her 2011 appointment under the 2010 Constitution. Her trailblazing role opened doors for female leaders in the judiciary, including Chief Justice Martha Koome, DCJ Philomena Mwilu, and Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung’u.
Baraza’s distinguished legal career and advocacy for human rights and constitutional reforms highlight her resilience and achievements. Her recent appointment to head a task force addressing the country’s growing femicide crisis underscores her continued commitment to justice and social issues.
Here is her biography as detailed by WoK:
Early Life and Background
The former DCJ, born in 1957 and raised in Bungoma, Western Kenya, grew up in a family that prioritized education. Her upbringing fueled a lifelong passion for law.
Educational Background
She pursued a law degree at the University of Nairobi and joined the Kenya School of Law in 1980, graduating the following year. In 1982, she was admitted to the Roll of Advocates.
Career Beginnings
In 1982 , she joined the Kilonzo and Company Advocates as a litigation assistant.
Five years later, she co-founded the Kioni, Baraza and Company Advocates law firm where she worked in litigation and advocacy, leading her to become one of Kenya’s most respected legal figures.
In 2008, Baraza was appointed vice chairperson of the Kenya Law Reform Commission, a position she held for three years. During her tenure, she played a key role in advancing legal reforms to strengthen the country’s legal framework.
Role in FIDA and Advocacy
Nancy also served as the chairperson of the Kenyan chapter of the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), in line with her passion for advocacy for women and children’s rights. In this role, she championed democracy, justice, and equality, further cementing her dedication to societal welfare. Her work with FIDA showcased her commitment to using her legal expertise to advocate for marginalized communities.
Appointment as Deputy Chief Justice
In 2011, Kenya’s Judicial Service Commission nominated Nancy Baraza and Willy Munyoki as the country’s first Deputy Chief Justices after a thorough selection process. Their nominations were forwarded to then-President Mwai Kibaki and subsequently to Parliament for approval.
Baraza was then appointed alongside Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, ushering in a new era for the Kenyan judiciary under the revised Constitution.
Controversies
On December 31, 2011, Nancy Baraza was allegedly involved in an altercation with a female security guard, Rebecca Kerubo at the Village Market shopping mall. The incident prompted an investigation by the JSC, which resulted in the recommendation of her suspension. A tribunal appointed by President Mwai Kibaki deemed her behavior unsuitable for her position, resulting in her suspension and subsequent resignation on October 18, 2012.
Resignation Aftermath
After she was suspended by the JSC, she unsuccessfully attempted to appeal the tribunal’s decision resulting in her resignation. The aftermath of the incident left a lasting impression on Kenya’s professional landscape, particularly in the civil service, with public servants expected to demonstrate decorum and high standards.
Career Post Controversy
Nancy Baraza earned Doctor of Laws PhD from the University of Nairobi in 2016. The lawyer who retreated to her private life, and pproceeded to become a senior lecturer and Chairperson of the Department of Public Law, at the School of Law, University of Nairobi. She taught family law, social foundations of law and development, jurisprudence, and access to justice.
In January 10, 2025, President Ruto appointed her to lead the task force on analysing Gender Based Violence (GBV) and femicide cases. She will be leading a team that will assess, review and recommend measures to strengthen the legal and policy framework in response to GBV cases.
Dr Baraza’s task force is expected to submit a report within 90 days.
Family Life
Nancy Baraza has kept her family life private, with little known about her husband and children. However, she is recognized as the stepmother of renowned artist Bien-Aimé Baraza, a member of the popular Kenyan band Sauti Sol, and actor Melvin Alusa.
