Martha Karua, the leader of NARC-Kenya, has released her highly anticipated memoir, Against the Tide, offering a candid and deeply personal account of her remarkable journey from a curious child to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. The book chronicles her early years, the challenges she faced in a male-dominated legal profession, her activism for justice, and her rise to political prominence, ultimately earning her the title “Iron Lady” for her steadfast advocacy of the rule of law and her unwavering commitment to fighting corruption.
In an exclusive interview on [local radio station], Karua discussed the motivations behind writing Against the Tide and the powerful lessons drawn from her life experiences. She reflected on the pivotal moments that shaped her into a symbol of resilience, integrity, and principled leadership.
Early Life and Family Influence
Karua fondly recalls the immense support and encouragement she received from her family, particularly her father, a lawyer who greatly influenced her career path. “My close family had been supportive and patient, my dad and teachers exhibited patience with me,” she said, highlighting the important role her family played in her upbringing.
Her curious nature, while at times leading to mischief, was nurtured and shaped by her education at Nairobi Girls’ School, where she was encouraged to express her opinions freely and think critically. Karua also recalls a pivotal moment in her youth when she accompanied her father to court. Observing the respect commanded by the magistrates, Karua became inspired to pursue a career in law. “When I was in primary school, I accompanied my dad to court on a traffic matter, and I liked the attention the magistrate was getting. Upcountry, they were being called ‘Judge,'” she reminisced. This early exposure to the legal profession laid the foundation for her eventual career as a magistrate, before she transitioned into private legal practice.
Political Journey and Activism
Karua’s political journey is deeply rooted in her activism for justice and accountability. Early in her career, she was actively involved with the Law Society of Kenya, where she became a strong voice in holding the government accountable. “I realized that just as I had in the law society activism, it’s not enough to complain about what is not being done. It’s also important to enter there and do what you think should be done. I was seeking to be part of the solution,” Karua explained.
Her political career began in 1992 when she was elected as the Member of Parliament for Gichugu. She served for four consecutive terms, earning a reputation for her integrity and commitment to the rule of law. However, Karua reflects on her decision to run for president in 2012 with a sense of regret, acknowledging that she had perhaps taken on more than she could handle. “The people of Gichugu elected me, and I believe if I had gone for the parliamentary seat instead of the presidency in 2012 or any local seat, I would still have been elected. I had bitten more than I could chew,” she shared.
The ‘Iron Lady’ of Kenyan Politics
Karua’s uncompromising stance on corruption, accountability, and constitutional reform earned her the moniker of “Iron Lady.” She recounts her time in the Kibaki administration, where she became known for being a hardliner on the constitutional reform process. “Kibaki wanted to accommodate Raila and his group in the government, but he wanted to be able to appoint and fire just like before,” Karua explained, reflecting on the tensions surrounding the drafting of Kenya’s new constitution.
Despite the numerous political challenges she faced, Karua remained steadfast in her principles and fought for the reforms necessary to create a more transparent and accountable government. Her advocacy for the constitutional review process and her dedication to ensuring a fair and just legal system became defining elements of her political identity.
A Memoir of Resilience and Determination
Against the Tide offers readers a deeply personal and insightful look into Karua’s resilience, determination, and unyielding commitment to justice. “I have always believed that the law is the best tool for ensuring fairness, equality, and accountability,” she writes, emphasizing the transformative role of legal and political reforms in shaping a just society.
Throughout her career, Karua has faced numerous obstacles—particularly as a woman in a predominantly male political arena—but her journey stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining one’s principles in the face of adversity.
Looking Ahead
As NARC-Kenya continues to influence the political landscape, Karua’s memoir serves as both a personal reflection and an inspiration to others, particularly women, who aspire to take on leadership roles with integrity, determination, and a commitment to justice. Against the Tide is not only an account of her life but also a call to action for those who believe in the transformative power of the law and the importance of ethical leadership.
Martha Karua’s journey is a powerful reminder that one can overcome the most challenging obstacles, push against the tide, and rise to lead with conviction. Her story continues to inspire many to pursue their dreams and challenge the status quo in the quest for a better future.
