Martha Karua’s Memoir: A Journey of Leadership and Resilience

: Discover Martha Karua’s memoir, Against the Tide, as she reflects on her
political career, struggles, and triumphs in Kenya’s fight for justice and
leadership.

Martha Wangari Karua, born on September 22, 1957, in Kirinyaga District, launched her
memoir, Against The Tide, on Sunday, November 17, 2024.

This memoir, the culmination of nine years of writing, offers an insightful and personal
look into Karua’s remarkable journey as a lawyer, activist, and politician.
Known for her staunch advocacy for justice, tireless efforts against corruption, and bold
leadership, Karua has become one of Kenya’s most respected political figures.

“Writing this book has been a labour of love; the love I have for my country
and its people, the struggles I have endured, and the unwavering
commitment to building a better Kenya,” Karua shared at the launch,
reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that have defined her career.

A Curious Childhood and Early Inspirations

Growing up in Kimunye village, Karua’s inquisitiveness often led her to challenge the
status quo. Despite being a source of concern for her parents—both teachers—her
curiosity became the foundation of her intellectual pursuits.

“My close family had been supportive and patient, my dad and teachers
exhibited patience with me,” Karua recalls.
Her father, a prominent figure in her early life, sparked Karua’s interest in law,
particularly after she accompanied him to court as a child and became fascinated by the
respect magistrates commanded.

“When I was in primary school, I accompanied my dad to court on a traffic
matter. We had gone to Kerugoya, then we passed by the court. I liked the
attention the magistrate was getting, and upcountry they were being called
‘Judge,’” she explains.

Karua’s education at Nairobi Girls’ School fostered her independence, where she was
encouraged to express her opinions freely—a crucial factor in the development of her
leadership qualities.

Political Awakening

Karua’s political activism began within the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), where she and
other members challenged government excesses. This marked the beginning of her
deep commitment to national change.

“I realised that just as I had in the law society activism, it’s not enough to
complain about what is not being done.
It’s also important to get there and do what you think should be done. I was
seeking to be a part of the solution,” she explained.

Her decision to join active politics in 1992 led to her election as the Member of
Parliament (MP) for Gichugu, a position she held for four terms.

This transition marked her rise to national prominence, where she became renowned
for her principles, adherence to the rule of law and advocacy for women’s rights. Over
time, her steadfast nature earned her the nickname “The Iron Lady.”

From Law School to Legal Practice

Karua’s passion for law drove her to the University of Nairobi, where she earned her law
degree in 1980 and was admitted to the bar in 1982.

At just 24 years old, she began her career as a magistrate. However, financial
constraints led her to private practice in 1987, where she grew her firm, Martha Karua &
Co. Advocates, and advocated for human rights during Kenya’s politically turbulent
years under President Daniel arap Moi.

“When I entered the judiciary as a magistrate, I was earning Sh3,000. When
I got a family, the salary was not good enough,” Karua explains.
Her work in public service and private practice led to her being conferred Senior
Counsel 38 years later, following a career marked by significant legal accomplishments.

A Pivotal Role in the 2007 Election Crisis

In her memoir, Karua recounts the dramatic aftermath of the 2007 elections, when the
Electoral Commission of Kenya declared Mwai Kibaki the winner amid accusations of
fraud.

Despite widespread protests from the opposition, led by Raila Odinga, Karua took
immediate action to ensure Kibaki was sworn in.

The swearing-in ceremony, held on December 30, 2007, took place at State House,
Nairobi, despite the chaotic situation.

“The swearing-in had to be done immediately. Kibaki was declared the winner, and
according to the Inter-Parties Parliamentary Group (IPPG) amendment, the President
was to be sworn in as soon as he was declared,” Karua explained.

The action was necessary, she asserted, to maintain order during a tense political
period.
“How else could the swearing-in have been conducted? It was vital to swear
him in immediately,” she added.

Despite the political turmoil, Karua stands by her decision:
“I did what was right, and I stand by that decision. Even tomorrow, I will do
what is right. I have no regrets about the role I played as Kibaki’s agent and
the vote I cast for him,” she said.

However, the aftermath of the election saw post-election violence, which led to tribal
clashes, destruction, and loss of life. Karua expressed regret for the violence that
followed:
“We regret the loss of life, the destruction of property, and the displacement
of people. We also regret our failure as leaders, which could have led the
country into an abyss.”

Lessons from Leadership and Regrets

In her memoir, Karua reflects candidly on her political journey, including her decision to
run for president in 2012, which she now considers a misstep.

“The people of Gichugu elected me. I believe if I had gone for the
parliamentary seat instead of the presidency in 2012 or any local seat, I
would still be elected. I had bitten more than I could chew,” she admits.

Despite the loss, Karua stands firm in her principled approach to politics, particularly
during the constitutional review under President Mwai Kibaki’s administration.

“The issue of refusing to anchor the agreement in the Constitution was
pivotal. Kibaki wanted to accommodate Raila and his group in government
but still retain the ability to appoint and fire just like before. However, Raila and his group, having been fired in 2005, wanted it enshrined in the Constitution,” she explains.

A Legacy of Resilience

Karua’s story is not just one of triumph, but also resilience in the face of adversity,
including losses and betrayals. Reflecting on her journey, she writes:

“Thirty-eight years later, I was conferred to the rank of Senior Counsel
following an illustrious career in public service and private practice,
successfully arguing cases that have set legal precedence. It has not been
easy. I have faced each tide that has come my way and overcome.”

Against The Tide: A Testament of Courage

This memoir, which took nearly a decade to complete, stands as a testament to Karua’s
unwavering resolve to confront challenges head-on.

For anyone seeking inspiration from one of Kenya’s most iconic leaders, Against The
Tide offers a story of resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
“Against The Tide is about overcoming adversity. It’s about resilience,”
Karua declared.