In the dynamic landscape of Kenyan politics, few figures have been as influential and resilient as Justin Bedan Njoka Muturi and he was born on April 28, 1956, in Mbeere North, Embu County, Muturi’s journey from a judiciary employee to the Attorney General of Kenya is a testament to his dedication and service to the nation.
Early Life and Education
Muturi’s educational journey began in Mbeere, where he attended primary school before moving on to Kangaru Boys High School for his secondary education. In 1971, he joined the prestigious Nairobi University School of Law, graduating with an LLB in 1981. His academic pursuits didn’t end there; he furthered his legal training at the Kenya School of Law, earning a postgraduate diploma in law and gaining admission to the bar in 1982.
A Career in Law and Politics
Muturi’s career started in the judiciary, where he served as a principal magistrate from 1982 to 1997. During this time, he also chaired the Judges and Magistrates Association, advocating for the rights and welfare of his peers.
In 1999, Muturi’s political career took off when he was elected as a member of Parliament for Siakago Constituency on a Kenya African National Union (KANU) ticket. He quickly made a name for himself, serving as opposition chief whip and chair of the Public Investment Committee during the 10th Parliament.
Speaker of the National Assembly
Perhaps Muturi’s most notable role was as the 7th Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, a position he held from 2013 to 2022. He made history as the first speaker to serve following the reestablishment of a bicameral Parliament by the 2010 Constitution. His election to the speakership after a second round of voting by members of the National Assembly was a significant victory, marking him as a key player in Kenya’s legislative process.
Attorney General and Beyond
Today, Muturi serves as the Attorney General of Kenya, a role he assumed in October 2022. His extensive experience in law and governance makes him well-suited for this position, where he continues to influence the legal landscape of the country.
Personal Life
While much of Muturi’s life is public, he maintains a private family life. He is married and has three children, who, along with his wife, stay out of the public eye.
Legacy and Influence
Muturi’s legacy is not just in the positions he has held but also in his contributions to the fight against corruption. He has been a member of the Africa Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption and the Global Organisation of Parliamentarians Against Corruption, reflecting his commitment to integrity in governance.
As we look at the career of Justin Muturi, it’s clear that his impact on Kenyan politics will be felt for years to come. His story is one of perseverance, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his country.
What Are Some Of Justin Muturi Achievements?
Justin Muturi has had a distinguished career with several notable achievements:
Speaker of the National Assembly: Muturi served as the 7th Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya from 2013 to 2022, becoming the first to serve after the reestablishment of a bicameral Parliament by the 2010 Constitution.
Attorney General: He currently holds the position of Attorney General of Kenya, assuming office in October 2022.
Member of Parliament: He was elected as a member of Parliament for Siakago Constituency in 1999 and served until 2007.
Chairman of Public Investments Committee: During his tenure as an MP, he also chaired the Public Investments Committee.
Opposition Chief Whip: He served as the opposition chief whip from 2003 to 2007.
Judiciary Service: Before his political career, he served as a principal magistrate in the judiciary from 1982 to 1997.
Anti-Corruption Advocacy: Muturi was involved with the Africa Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption and the Global Organisation of Parliamentarians Against Corruption, advocating for parliamentary oversight to prevent corruption.
Constitutional Review: He played a role in the constitutional review process that led to the adoption of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
These are just a few highlights of Justin Muturi’s contributions to Kenyan politics and governance. His work has had a lasting impact on the country’s legislative and judicial systems.
Justin Muturi Net Worth
Justin Muturi, the former National Assembly Speaker and current Attorney General of Kenya, has publicly declared his net worth. As of October 2024, he stated that his net worth is approximately Ksh 700 million.
Justin Muturi Salary
As the Attorney General of Kenya, Justin Muturi’s current salary is a basic salary of Ksh 554,400 and a gross salary of Ksh 924,000. This is after taking a pay cut from his previous salary as the National Assembly Speaker, where he had a basic salary of Ksh 696,000 and a gross salary of Ksh 1,160,000. In addition to his salary, he is entitled to various allowances and benefits associated with his role as a state officer.
Controversy And Activism Of Justin Muturi
Justin Muturi, the Attorney General of Kenya, has been involved in several controversies and activism efforts throughout his career:
Controversies:
PSC Conflict: Muturi proposed amendments to the law that would give him powers to appoint and dismiss officials in his office, which was opposed by the Public Service Commission (PSC) as unconstitutional
Power Dynamics: A bill sponsored by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah aimed to clip the powers of the Attorney General, shifting certain responsibilities away from Muturi’s office, which has stirred controversy regarding the balance of power within the Kenyan government.
Bribery Accusation: In 1997, while serving as a magistrate, Muturi was accused of soliciting a bribe, although he was acquitted and did not resume his duties as a magistrate.
Activism:
Protection of Churches: Catholic activists have urged Muturi to protect Kenyan churches from taxation, following a court petition challenging the tax exemption of religious institutions.
Anti-Corruption Advocacy: As the President of the Board of the African Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption (APNAC), Muturi has steered the organization in advocating for strong parliamentary oversight to prevent corruption across the continent.
Muturi’s career has been marked by both achievements and challenges, reflecting the complex nature of political and legal service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Justin Muturi’s biography is not just a record of his achievements but also a narrative of a man who has dedicated his life to the betterment of his nation. It’s a story that resonates with hope, challenges, and the promise of a brighter future for Kenya.
