Claris Awuor Ogangah has officially taken office as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, pledging to defend dignity, strengthen justice, and rebuild public trust through civic engagement.
Speaking on Monday, October 13, 2025, during her swearing-in, she vowed to lead the commission with humility, faith, and commitment to protect the rights of all Kenyans.
“This is not just a personal honour, but a solemn responsibility that I hope to undertake with humility.”
Ogangah takes office at a time when, she noted, conversations about justice, dignity, equality, and freedom have become central to Kenya’s public life.
“Citizens yearn not only for the defence of their rights but also for accountability, integrity, and justice by those entrusted with authority,” she stated.
She described her appointment as both a duty and an opportunity to strengthen Kenya’s collective commitment to human rights, highlighting that these values must be lived realities rather than distant ideals.
Ogangah also reflected on Kenya’s role in the global human rights landscape, noting that Nairobi’s position as a regional hub for international dialogue presents both a challenge and a privilege.
“Strengthening the KNCHR is not only a national imperative but also a statement of Kenya’s commitment to global justice and solidarity,” Ogangah said.
She expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in her and vowed to uphold the commission’s mandate with integrity and fairness.
“I stand before you today deeply humbled and grateful for the trust that has been placed in me through my appointment as Chairperson of our National Human Rights Institution,” she said.
“This is not just a personal honour, but a solemn responsibility that I hope to undertake with humility.”
Ogangah takes office at a time when, she noted, conversations about justice, dignity, equality, and freedom have become central to Kenya’s public life.
“Citizens yearn not only for the defence of their rights but also for accountability, integrity, and justice by those entrusted with authority,” she stated.
She described her appointment as both a duty and an opportunity to strengthen Kenya’s collective commitment to human rights, highlighting that these values must be lived realities rather than distant ideals.
Ogangah also reflected on Kenya’s role in the global human rights landscape, noting that Nairobi’s position as a regional hub for international dialogue presents both a challenge and a privilege.
“Strengthening the KNCHR is not only a national imperative but also a statement of Kenya’s commitment to global justice and solidarity,” she said.