Justine Muturi, known officially as Justin Bedan Njoka Muturi, has had a notable career in Kenyan politics and law. Born on April 28, 1956, in Kanyuambora, Mbeere North, he has navigated through various roles that have shaped his prominence in Kenyan governance.
Early Life and Education: Muturi’s journey began in the local primary schools before he attended Kangaru Boys High School for his secondary education. He furthered his studies at the University of Nairobi, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree in 1981. His legal education was completed at the Kenya School of Law, where he obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Law and was admitted as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya in 1982.
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Judicial Career: After his legal education, Muturi served as a principal magistrate from 1982 to 1997. During this period, he was also the chairman of the Judges and Magistrates Association. His judicial career was not without controversy; he was accused of soliciting a bribe in 1997 but was later acquitted. Following this incident, he did not return to the Judiciary, instead choosing to venture into politics.
Political Career: In the political arena, Muturi first entered Parliament through a by-election in 1999 for the Siakago Constituency as a member of the Kenya African National Union (KANU). He was re-elected in 2002 and served as the opposition chief whip and chair of the Public Investment Committee during the 10th Parliament. His political journey saw him lose the Mbeere North parliamentary seat in 2013 to Muriuki Njagagua, but he quickly found another avenue in politics by becoming the Speaker of the National Assembly in the same year. Muturi won this position after a second round of voting, defeating former speaker Kenneth Marende.
As Speaker, Muturi was instrumental during a period of significant legislative changes, including the passing of the Security Amendment Bill of 2014 and the Elections Amendment Bill of 2017. He served until 2022, making him the first Speaker following the bicameral parliamentary system reintroduced by the 2010 Kenyan Constitution.
Later Roles: Post his tenure as Speaker, Muturi was nominated and vetted for the position of Attorney General under President William Ruto’s administration in 2022. His role as Attorney General was marked by his assertion that his office was often not consulted on critical government decisions, highlighting a disconnect in some governmental operations. His tenure as Attorney General was notable until he was replaced in 2024.
Personal Challenges and Public Life: Muturi’s public life was not without personal challenges. His son, Leslie Muturi, was reportedly abducted and later released, causing a stir in Kenyan media and social circles. This incident underscored the personal risks associated with public service in Kenyan politics.
Throughout his career, Muturi has been involved in various civil society groups like the Centre for Multiparty Democracy, emphasizing his commitment to democratic processes. His journey from a magistrate to a key political figure shows a man who has navigated both the judicial and political landscapes of Kenya with significant impact.
