Nairobi
August 27, 2025
The chairperson of the National Land Commission, Gershom Otachi has underlined the urgent need to safeguard constitutional achievements as the country marks 15 years since the promulgation of the current constitution on August 27, 2010.
Speaking during a panel discussion organised by the Nation Media Group under the theme ‘Guarding the Gains of the Constitution – 15 Years On’, Mr Otachi who also chairs the Caucus of Chairs of Constitutional Commissions and Independent Offices (CCIOs), he urged Kenyans to embrace full implementation of the Constitution, reminding the audience that it begins with “We the people.” He emphasized that accountability lies with all arms of government, including the political leadership, and called for honest reflection and constructive engagement to strengthen public institutions.
Chief Justice Martha Koome delivered the keynote address. She reflected on the Constitution’s enduring relevance: “As we mark 15 years of the Constitution, I want to underscore that it is a living document its heartbeat is the citizen of Kenya.”
The country is today commemorating 15 years since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution a transformative milestone that redefined governance by emphasizing citizen participation, devolution, equity, and human rights.
At the event themed “15 Years Later: The Constitution and Us”, held at Nairobi’s Movenpick Hotel, leaders from government, civil society, academia, and the media gathered to reflect on the Constitution’s impact and the challenges that remain.
Addressing issues around historical land injustices, land grabbing, and related disputes, Mr Otachi noted that the National Land Commission continues to process claims despite obstacles such as limited funding and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He added that while the Commission remains committed to upholding the law, it faces ongoing challenges including forged documents and collusion among some land officers.
As land rights continue to be central to Kenya’s development agenda, Constitution@15 serves as a critical platform to assess institutional performance and renew the country’s commitment to the Constitution’s vision and values.
At the turn of the decacde since their establishement udner the 2010 Constitution, three years ago, the CCIOs marked a decade of their existence by reviewing progress highlighting inadequate resources and encroachment on their mandates as key challenges.
Mr Otachi also encouraged intergenerational dialogue and reaffirmed the importance of unity in advancing constitutional gains.
Also present was Ms Faith Odhiambo, the president Law Society of Kenya, Hon. Winfridah Mokaya Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Mr Omwanza Ombati who is a Commissioner with the Judicial Service Commission and Irungu Houghton, the Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya.