Retired Kenyan judge, Lee Muthoga, has unveiled his autobiography titled Audacity and Sacrifice: My Life and Career, offering an in-depth look at his remarkable journey spanning nearly 80 years, including over three decades in the legal profession.
Born in 1945 under a sacred Mugumo tree in Nyeri, Central Kenya, Judge Muthoga’s story mirrors the resilience of this revered tree, known for its longevity in the Agikuyu community. His book reflects a life of dedication, growth, and service, both in Kenya and internationally.
Speaking at the book launch in Nairobi, Judge Muthoga described his autobiography as a truthful account of his life’s journey. “This book is my attempt to share the truth as I have experienced it,” he said. “I have included two unique sections: a collection of testimonials from individuals who have shaped my journey, and a pictorial segment that captures significant moments not easily conveyed through words.”
Audacity and Sacrifice explores Muthoga’s evolution as a family man, mentor, and fierce advocate for justice. It chronicles his career from humble beginnings during the colonial emergency period, through his education and legal practice, to his role in shaping Kenya’s legal landscape and his contributions to international justice.
Judge Muthoga shares his philosophy on success: “The lessons I have learned are clear—set your vision, decide what you want to achieve, and pursue it with unwavering determination. Be prepared to make sacrifices and have the courage to follow through on your goals.”
The book delves into his advocacy for marginalized communities, his leadership in Kenya’s legal circles, and his impact on children’s rights and multi-party democracy. Despite a demanding career, Muthoga emphasizes his commitment to family and community, mentoring young legal professionals and supporting the less fortunate.
Justice John Mutungi of the Environment and Land Court highlights Judge Muthoga’s legacy, stating, “His law firm has nurtured many lawyers, including at least five judges now serving in superior courts, as well as senior advocates in both private practice and the corporate sector.”
In a foreword by esteemed lawyer P.L.O. Lumumba, a quote from Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart is included: “When you see the mouth of a king, you cannot know that he once suckled his mother’s breasts.” Lumumba praises Muthoga’s journey from humble beginnings to a distinguished legal career, crediting his grit and determination.
Judge Muthoga recounts his confrontations with institutional injustices, from challenging racism in schools to his activism at the University of East Africa’s Faculty of Law in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. His tenacity led him to establish Muthoga and Company Advocates shortly after earning his law degree.
The autobiography also covers his significant roles in the Law Society of Kenya, the Africa Bar Association, the International Bar Association, and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. It highlights his involvement in high-profile cases, including representing the family of J.M. Kariuki during the investigation into his murder, and his role in the inquiry into the conduct of former Attorney General Charles Njonjo.
The culmination of his career was his election as an ad litem judge at the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (UN-ICTR) from 2003 to 2012, followed by his appointment to the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (UN-MICT).
Judge Muthoga’s Audacity and Sacrifice serves as a source of inspiration, urging readers to pursue their goals with resilience, integrity, and a commitment to justice. Reflecting on his life, he shares a piece of wisdom from his mother: “Nothing of real value has ever been achieved without sacrifice.”
This compelling autobiography invites readers to reflect on their own paths and inspires them to chase their dreams with dedication and courage.
