Karua marks Katiba Day with call to defend 2010 Constitution
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) Leader Martha Karua has issued a powerful statement marking the 15th anniversary of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, warning that the spirit of the transformative document is under threat and calling on Kenyans to recommit to its original promise.
In an X post on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Karua, a key figure in the struggle for constitutional reform and former Minister of Justice, reflected on the hopes that inspired the adoption of the Constitution on August 27, 2010, and the ongoing challenges facing the nation.
You might also like
“On 27th August 2010, Kenya chose a new path. The Constitution we promulgated was not just about law; it was about the ordinary Kenyan,” she wrote.
Karua emphasised that the Constitution was designed to bring tangible change to the lives of everyday citizens.
“It was about the mother in Turkana finally having a clinic nearby. It was about the farmer in Migori receiving market access support for their goods. It was about the child in Kibera accessing education and a meal with dignity,” the X statement read.
The veteran politician recalled her own role in championing the new legal order during her time as Justice Minister.
“As Minister of Justice, I fought for this vision. I worked to bring all stakeholders to the table and build consensus for a ‘yes’ vote, because I knew Kenya’s future could not be built on division,” she stated.
Disregard of the Constitution
Karua warned that the transformative promise of the Constitution is being undermined by current governance failures.
“15 years later, that promise is under threat. We see abductions, torture, economic hardships, attacks on devolution, and leaders who place self above service,” she warned.
Her comments come amid growing public concern over human rights violations, the shrinking space for civic engagement, and strained relations between national and county governments.
The PLP chief echoed widespread frustrations over the erosion of democratic norms and the perceived abandonment of the values enshrined in the Constitution.
Despite the grim assessment, Karua struck a hopeful tone, applauding the resilience of citizens who continue to uphold constitutionalism in various spheres.
“We also see the resilience of Kenyans who continue to defend the Constitution in courts, in communities, and in the public square,” she said.
She reaffirmed her personal commitment to the ongoing struggle for justice and equity.
“I remain committed to this struggle. The Constitution must continue to work for the people: to put food on the table, deliver healthcare, protect livelihoods, and safeguard justice,” Karua asserted.
Karua urged Kenyans to go beyond ceremonial observance of the day and engage meaningfully with the values of the Constitution.
“On this Promulgation Day, let us recommit ourselves, not just to words on paper, but to the lived promise of dignity, equity, and justice for every Kenyan,” she said.
