“Though he resides and practices in Kenya, Njiru’s voice carries beyond borders. For Kenyans in the diaspora, his work symbolizes the kind of principled leadership and civic courage often missing in the national conversation.“

Ndegwa Njiru, born and raised in Gichugu Constituency of Kirinyaga County, is one of Kenya’s most fearless constitutional lawyers and outspoken defenders of civil liberties. His journey into law was inspired by early exposure to courtrooms—thanks to his father, a teacher who often brought him along to observe legal proceedings. From his school days at Kerugoya Municipality and Kianyaga High School to earning a law degree at Kampala International University and later a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, Njiru’s path has always pointed toward public advocacy. He was admitted to the Kenyan Bar in 2011 and has since built a reputation as both a sharp legal mind and a thorn in the side of unchecked power.

Njiru’s legal star rose during the high-profile impeachment proceedings against top county leaders. He represented Kirinyaga Members of County Assembly in their bid to impeach Governor Anne Waiguru and later played a central role in the case that saw Nairobi MCAs attempt to remove Governor Mike Sonko. His fearless courtroom strategy and command of constitutional law made him both admired and feared in political circles. Most recently, he appeared in the Senate during impeachment proceedings involving Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Though the attempt failed, Njiru’s legal influence remained unmistakable.

But his fight extends far beyond courtrooms. Njiru has taken bold public stances on national issues, accusing President William Ruto of bribing Members of Parliament to stifle dissent and calling out the growing authoritarian tilt in government. He has consistently defended the right to protest, describing it as God-given and protected by the Constitution. His commentary pierces through the noise of Kenyan politics, providing clarity, critique, and courage—often when many others choose silence.

With his outspokenness, however, has come scrutiny. In July 2025, the High Court ordered an inquiry into Njiru and two of his clients over allegations of subornation of perjury. The accusations stem from controversial testimony against a judge, and though the matter is ongoing, it may have been intended to cast a shadow over his career. But to his supporters, the case is a political witch-hunt; for his detractors, a long-awaited reckoning. Regardless, it reveals the cost of dissent in a system where speaking truth can come with steep penalties.

Away from the legal battlefield, Njiru is also a family man. In October 2024, he married his longtime partner Laureen Ndanu in a traditional ceremony held in Tala, Machakos County. The occasion drew prominent national figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Jeremiah Kioni, and Martha Karua. It was both a personal milestone and a public affirmation of Njiru’s expanding influence in Kenya’s political and legal spheres.

Though he resides and practices in Kenya, Njiru’s voice carries beyond borders. For Kenyans in the diaspora, his work symbolizes the kind of principled leadership and civic courage often missing in the national conversation. At a time when many abroad remain frustrated by governance failures, corruption, and the slow erosion of democratic space, figures like Njiru stand as powerful reminders that the struggle for justice is still alive back home. He speaks the language of rights, law, and accountability—values the diaspora cherishes and often feels disconnected from.

Ndegwa Njiru is not merely a lawyer. He is a disruptor in a country where compromise is common and truth-telling is punished. Whether defending embattled MCAs, criticizing executive overreach, or challenging legislative impunity, he refuses to toe the line. His journey, filled with tension, triumph, and controversy, reflects the battle for Kenya’s soul. For both citizens within the borders and those scattered across the globe, Njiru’s voice reminds us that democracy requires defenders—and silence is never an option.

By Arch. Dr. D.K. Gitau| The Diaspora Times

Disclaimer:
This article is based on information compiled from publicly available sources, including media reports, verified social media accounts, and legal records. The Diaspora Times does not take responsibility for the accuracy of third-party claims or pending legal matters referenced herein. The views expressed are for informational and editorial purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Readers are encouraged to seek independent verification where necessary.