By KPC Reporter
Amnesty International Kenya has appointed George Morara as its new Executive Director, with the human rights organisation saying he will officially assume office on June 2, 2026.
In a statement, Amnesty Kenya said Morara emerged successful following an open competitive recruitment process that was announced in February this year.
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The organisation described Morara as a seasoned leader with nearly three decades of experience in governance, public accountability and human rights advocacy.
“George Morara brings a distinguished record of three decades of leadership in governance, public accountability, and human rights advocacy,” Amnesty Kenya said in the statement.
The organisation added that Morara has built a reputation as “a principled and strategic leader” committed to advancing constitutionalism, transparency and civic engagement, including through his previous role as Vice-Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
Amnesty Kenya also paid tribute to outgoing Executive Director Irũngũ Houghton for his eight years of service, crediting him with steering the organisation through a major transition into a membership-driven national section governed by a Kenyan board.
“Under his stewardship, Amnesty International Kenya went from a national office of the International Secretariat to a membership driven organisation governed by a national board of Kenyans,” the statement read.
The rights lobby further noted that Houghton expanded Amnesty Kenya’s voice on key national issues including police accountability, protection of civic space and socio-economic justice.
Board Chairperson Dr. Stellah Wairimu Bosire said the organisation is confident Morara will steer Amnesty Kenya into its next phase at a time when human rights challenges remain significant across Kenya and the wider East African region.
“As we welcome George Morara, we are confident that his experience, integrity, and energy will guide Amnesty International Kenya and Kenya into its next chapter,” she said.
Amnesty Kenya said Morara’s appointment comes at a critical moment for human rights in Kenya and East Africa, reiterating its commitment to promoting accountability, defending freedoms and advancing dignity for all.
