Dorcas Oduor becomes first woman Attorney General

By Peter Ochieng

Dorcas Oduor has become the first woman to occupy the position of Attorney General (AG) in Kenya's history.

Oduor was sworn in at a ceremony in State House, Nairobi on Tuesday morning attended by among others, President William Ruto.

Until her nomination, vetting, appointment and subsequent swearing in, she was the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions.

In his address, President Ruto said Oduor deserves to hold the position having grown throw the ranks in the country's judicial service system.

“Many people have said you are the first woman in independent Kenya to become Attorney General. This appointment is not just about you being a woman, its about you being competent. I am very confident that on account of confidence and ability to deliver, you deserve to serve in this position," said the Head of State.

"I am very confident and clear that you will not only make us as a country proud but also you will demonstrate what has always been said that what a man can do, maybe a woman can do better. Many people will be watching," he added.

He challenged the new State Law Officer to work closely with other relevant officers so as to drastically reduce the number of cases the government loses in courts.

“It is very important Madam Attorney General that you work with all the other agencies to make sure that responsibility and legal representation to the government and people of Kenya is timely, robust and appropriate.”

Dorcas Oduor takes over from Justin Muturi who is currently serving as Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Public Service.

Women are occupying the top most positions in the country judicial service. Chief Justice, the Deputy, chair of the Law Society of Kenya and Register of the Judiciary are all women.

Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs & Regional Development Beatrice Askul was also sworn in.