Kenya's first female Attorney-General Dorcas Oduor sworn in

Attorney-General Dorcas Oduor and Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs and Regional Development Beatrice Askul have been sworn in. 

The ceremony took place on Tuesday, August 20 at State House, Nairobi.

President William Ruto expressed confidence in Oduor's experience and qualifications for the position, highlighting her ascent through the ranks.

"Many have noted that you are the first woman since independence to become Attorney General. This appointment is not just about gender; it's about competence. I am confident that you deserve this role based on your ability to deliver," said Ruto.

Oduor, who has over 30 years of legal experience, was admitted to the Bar in 1992 as an advocate of the High Court. Before her appointment, she served as the Secretary of Public Prosecutions in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. She now makes history as Kenya’s first female Attorney General since independence.

"I am confident that you will not only make us proud as a country but also demonstrate that what a man can do, perhaps a woman can do even better. Many will be watching," added Ruto.

He urged the new AG to work closely with other agencies to ensure that legal representation of the government and the people of Kenya is timely, robust, and appropriate. He also emphasised the need to expand the Office of the Attorney-General to better manage litigation and legal needs across the country.

Ruto further acknowledged that the Attorney-General's office has lagged behind in modernisation and reform, calling it a critical issue that needs addressing.

Oduor was nominated on July 30, replacing Justin Muturi, who was reassigned to the Ministry of Public Service following a cabinet reshuffle on July 11.

The Head of State also swore in Beatrice Askul, noting that he has known her for over 20 years. He advised Askul to work collaboratively with other EAC members to steer the country towards regional integration, investment, and entrepreneurship.

Askul, who was sworn in as part of the second batch of CS nominees, previously served as the Turkana County Executive Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.

She takes over from Peninah Malonza, whose appointment was revoked following the cabinet reshuffle.

A member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, she served on the party's National Elections Coordinating Committee until her recent nomination. She is a social scientist and consultant by profession, with specialized skills in community development and management.

Both Oduor and Askul have now assumed their duties with immediate effect.