President William Ruto has appointed Claris Awuor Ogangah as the Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) for a six-year term.
The appointment was announced in a gazette notice dated October 2, 2025. The notice confirmed that Ruto made the appointment in line with the Constitution and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Act.
Her appointment comes just days after the National Assembly approved her nomination. This marks an important step in strengthening human rights oversight in the country.
Ogangah takes over the position following the death of former Chairperson Roseline Odhiambo Odede, who passed away on January 3, 2025, after a short illness.
She previously served as Deputy Country Representative and Human Rights Specialist at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (Kenya).
KNCHR is an independent institution mandated to monitor government compliance with human rights standards, investigate violations, and promote accountability.
