Katwa Kigen stands among Kenya’s most prominent legal practitioners, recognized for his courtroom presence and involvement in several high profile cases. Over more than two decades in practice, he has built a reputation as a meticulous litigator, particularly in matters that draw national and international attention. His designation as Senior Counsel reflects both professional distinction and sustained contribution to Kenya’s legal landscape.
Admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in 1996, Katwa Kigen has practiced across multiple levels of the judiciary. From commercial disputes to constitutional petitions and international criminal law matters, his portfolio spans a broad spectrum of civil and criminal litigation. Today, he co owns Katwa and Kemboy Advocates, a Nairobi based law firm that has operated for over two decades.
His public profile grew significantly through representation in landmark cases, including proceedings before the International Criminal Court. Yet beyond media headlines, his legal work reflects structured advocacy across banking, insurance, land disputes, employment matters and arbitration.
Educational Background
Katwa Kigen pursued his legal education at the University of Nairobi, one of Kenya’s leading institutions for law. He obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree with honors, followed by a Master of Laws (LL.M.). He later completed a Diploma in Law at the Kenya School of Law, a mandatory professional qualification for advocates in Kenya.
His academic progression reflects both foundational legal training and advanced specialization. The combination of local and postgraduate credentials positioned him for complex litigation early in his career.
Legal Practice and Areas of Expertise
Since his admission to the bar in 1996, Katwa Kigen has focused primarily on civil litigation. His practice areas include banking law, insurance disputes, medical negligence and malpractice claims, land conflicts, commercial transactions, construction and environmental law.
He also handles judicial review proceedings, criminal matters, employment disputes, debt recovery, arbitration and mediation. His experience extends to public international law claims and cases involving international criminal law.
Katwa Kigen regularly appears before the Supreme Court of Kenya, the Court of Appeal, the High Court, the Employment and Labour Relations Court and specialized tribunals. His courtroom work often involves complex constitutional and statutory interpretation.
High Profile Cases
A defining aspect of Katwa Kigen’s career is his involvement in nationally significant cases.
International Criminal Court Representation
Katwa Kigen represented former KASS FM radio presenter Joshua Sang at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Sang was among six Kenyans charged in relation to the 2007 and 2008 post election violence. The ICC ultimately acquitted Sang due to insufficient evidence.
He also represented President William Ruto at the ICC. Ruto’s case similarly concluded with acquittal after charges were vacated.
These proceedings placed Katwa Kigen on the international legal stage and underscored his role in high stakes litigation.
Domestic Criminal and Constitutional Cases
Within Kenya, he successfully represented journalist Jacque Maribe in a murder case involving businesswoman Monica Kimani. Maribe was acquitted after the court found insufficient evidence linking her to the crime.
Katwa Kigen also acted for former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich in the Arror and Kimwarer dams corruption case. The case, which involved allegations tied to a multibillion shilling project, concluded with charges being dropped.
In addition, he represented families of victims in the criminal prosecution of police officers accused of killing lawyer Willie Kimani, his client, and a taxi driver. Acting pro bono, he pursued accountability in a case that drew widespread public concern.
During the 2022 presidential election petition at the Supreme Court of Kenya, Katwa Kigen was part of President William Ruto’s legal team defending the declared election results. The court upheld the presidential outcome.
Firm Leadership and Professional Standing
Katwa Kigen co owns Katwa and Kemboy Advocates, a firm that has operated for over 21 years. The firm handles diverse legal matters across civil, commercial and criminal law. Through this partnership, he has contributed to training younger advocates and shaping litigation strategy in complex cases.
His recognition as Senior Counsel signifies professional excellence, similar to the Queen’s Counsel designation in other jurisdictions. It reflects peer acknowledgment of his expertise and service in advancing legal standards.
Family and Personal Life
Details about Katwa Kigen’s family remain largely private. He has maintained a low profile regarding his personal life, choosing to keep family matters out of public attention.
This privacy aligns with his professional focus, where public attention centers primarily on courtroom achievements rather than personal narratives.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Katwa Kigen has not publicly disclosed his net worth. However, given his extensive experience, high profile clientele and leadership within a longstanding law firm, he is considered among Kenya’s financially successful legal practitioners.
Senior advocates handling complex commercial and constitutional matters typically command significant professional fees. Combined with firm ownership and decades of practice, this likely contributes to his financial stability.
Influence Within Kenya’s Legal Landscape
Over time, Katwa Kigen has built a reputation for structured argumentation and courtroom composure. His involvement in both international criminal cases and domestic constitutional litigation reflects versatility.
As Kenya’s legal system continues evolving, particularly in areas of constitutional interpretation and electoral law, figures such as Katwa Kigen remain central to shaping legal precedents. Through sustained advocacy and participation in landmark cases, he has contributed to debates that extend beyond individual clients to national governance questions.
His career illustrates the role of experienced counsel in navigating complex legal terrain while balancing public scrutiny and professional responsibility.
