Pheroze Nowrojee

Losing a parent is something we all go through but I have often wondered how we were made to withstand it. But I promise you we do - and that their memory one day turns from one that caused sorrow to one that brings comfort. I hope that helps through the days ahead and wish you and your family strength and love.

Haiku: Fight the power

Phil spent so much time in this area that I place his legacy with two other local men of color I hold dear that saw injustice and responded with truth.

Pheroze Nowrojee
Honorable John Lewis
Frederick Douglass

Under threat for their words.
Unbowed and always defiant.
Justice on their side.

Phil studied Gandhi. Read law.
Used both against crown and PMs.
With Villoo’s steady support.

Then as now. Same issues.
Human, civil, rights in peril.
An eloquent advocate.

Used the rule of law.
To give the oppressed defense.
Without fear or false favor.

A poet’s heart. Lawyer’s mind.
Sketching tales of old Kenya.
Loving family, and students.

Pheroze lived in hope.
It’s time to make good trouble.
That would be lovely.

Dear Villoo, My heartfelt condolences to you and the family. Phili was a gentle and kind soul. I have often thought of you both. You looked after Swaraj (passed away 2009) and me when we last visited Kenya. I will miss Phili. I am sure he is looking over you and the family. May his soul rest in peace. Ghinder

Hi Bin Khala, I’m so sorry to hear about your father’s passing, and I’m really sorry it’s taken me some time to write to you. I’ll always remember his interest in and help with my senior thesis—I still have the catalogs he sent me. Sending you lots of love 💕

A magnificent piece of legal finesse and prowess. The world is better of because of your invaluable contribution SC.

I suspect the poet in Pheroze would have been deeply proud of the Butere High School girls’ principled stand recently. The significance of a Millennial advocate protecting Alpha actors inspired by Gen Z activists would not have been lost on him. In death, Pheroze's stature will elevate in contrast to his humility in life. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched, the jurisprudence he influenced, the causes he championed, and the books he authored. Thankful for the gentle yet a sense of urgency to act he brought to all our conversations.
Rest now servant-elder. The Amnesty International movement salutes you.
Read the full 12 April 2025 Saturday Standard editorial here www.standardmedia.co.ke/houghton-irungu/article/2001516297/pheroze-must-be-proud-of-butere-girls-spine-to-express-themselves or www.irunguhoughton.org/post/pheroze-s-legacy-lives-on-in-the-courage-of-the-butere-girls

Pheroze Nowrojee was a towering figure in society and especially the Kenyan society. He stood for what is right and fought against injustices in society. The wrongs and injustices that he so fought against to name some include; land grabbing which was much perpetrated by the State especially in the immediate post colonial years, detention without trial in the subsequent post colonial local establishment which was the government by the locals, inequity, and he also advocated for integrity which was much visible in the Kenyan courts.
These are the traits that I would wish to emulate from the late Pheroze Nowrojee and May he rest in Peace.

SC Pheroze Norwojee inspired me in the legal profession in many ways. His legal prowess was seen in his approach to legal issues, authoritative, persuasive and witty were his arguments & submissions which always stood out in court proceedings, yet he was full of humility at the same time. Although I did not get the chance to meet him, I will greatly miss him.
The colossus of the legal profession in the region has rested.
Rest well Senior Counsel Pheroze Norwojee. Till we meet my role model.

Joel Jerry Walyono , a lawyer/advocate from Uganda

Sending you all blessings from Ngai 🙏🏽

Tribute to Pheroze Nowrojee

It is with deep sorrow and immense respect that I pay tribute to Mr. Pheroze Nowrojee — a towering intellect, a principled advocate, and a steadfast champion of justice and heritage.

I had the privilege of working closely with Pheroze since 2019, as we came together with a shared vision to establish the Asian African Heritage Gallery in Nairobi. From the very beginning, he brought not only his formidable knowledge of history and law, but also an unwavering moral compass and a deep personal commitment to truth and inclusion. His wisdom guided us, his clarity inspired us, and his passion carried this dream forward.

Through every conversation, Pheroze reminded us of the power of memory, and the importance of honoring the intertwined stories of Asian and African communities in Kenya — stories of migration, resilience, and solidarity. He had the rare gift of bringing history to life, not for nostalgia’s sake, but to illuminate the path forward with honesty and hope.

Beyond the gallery, his life’s work was a testament to justice — whether in the courtroom, the archives, or the streets. He stood with the oppressed, gave voice to the silenced, and held firm to ideals that rarely bent under pressure.

Working with Pheroze was not only an honor, it was an education. His legacy will endure — not only in the institutions he helped shape, but in the countless lives he touched with his dignity, intellect, and unshakeable integrity.

May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue the work he began, with the same courage and clarity that defined his remarkable life.

Pheroze was a great man, a distinguished Kenyan, a valiant fighter for human and constitutional rights. It was a privilege to have known him and I regret that President Kibaki's judicial reforms came too late for him to become Chief Justice. He had an incisive legal brain and unbowed determination to stand up for what he knew to be right. He will be sorely missed.

SC Nowrojee was very respectful and humble. My recollection of my encounter with him, while far junior to him, is that he still treated me courteously and respectfully in our interaction. I admired his legal brilliance and reachability. Rest well, SC. Nowrojee.

Brilliance. Compassion. Justice.

3 words that accurately describe Senior Counsel. It was in his words, his writings and his actions. He echoed the beliefs in his heart by how he lived and we are grateful for the footsteps he laid for us to follow.

Thank you SC!

Pheroze Nowrojee: A Towering Fighter for Justice
By SALIM LONE
Read the full Sunday Nation article at https://nation.africa/kenya/weekly-review/pheroze-nowrojee-a-gentle-towering-fighter-for-justice-5000522

“For as long as Kenyans have fought for their civil, political liberties and freedoms, Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee has been there, steadfast, and unbowed as the People's Attorney. His thoughts and footprints are in every milestone we have attained as a country, including the Constitution of 2010. His passing marks the end of a historic era.” Raila Odinga, Opposition Leader, and Prime Minister of Kenya (2008-2013).
I am writing this, while pulled by pain, to honour the extraordinary legacy of Pheroze Nowrojee, who has just left us after having lived a heroic life devoted entirely to fighting oppression and the routine denial of numerous basic rights and freedoms to Kenyans.
At the same time, as virtually every one of the scores of published tributes have highlighted, Pheroze also somehow made time to support and mentor hundreds of younger folk who will now carry on the work he was devoted to.
Thankfully, Pheroze was not alone in our halls of justice, which can easily be called halls of injustice for the less fortunate. Kenya has been gifted to an unsurpassed extent for a smallish nation in having produced dozens of intellectually-gifted lawyers and jurists who fought for people’s rights and became household names and won international renown.
But Pheroze easily towered over all the others for the longevity of his committed and principled steadfastness that never once wavered. Most of the other outstanding legal luminaries Kenya produced either moved on to more remunerative practices, or used the renown they established as people’s defenders for political, or more self-interested, ends.
Law is the pivotal component for progress in society. Freedom fighting leaders and the masses of men and women who create and rise with them are paramount in determining positive outcomes and the fate of a nation. But not far behind are lawyers and jurists who risk everything to use the law to mobilize support for peaceful change against those who use raw power to entrench oppression.
Few nations fighting for freedom before and after independence are as blessed as Kenya to have produced an extraordinary number of courageous and intellectually-gifted lawyers who fought for change or represented freedom fighters and became beloved household names. Among the best-known fighters for change who started before independence were D. N. Nene, Argwings-Kodhek, Jean Marie Seroney, Fitz de Souza, Achroo Kapila and Sharad Rao.
They were followed after independence by a new torrent of fighters as the new state started cracking down on constitutional freedoms, John Khaminwa, Paul Muite, Oki Ooko Ombaka, Makau Mutua, Kiraitu Murungi, the two Marthas Karua and Koome, Mumbi Ngugi, Willy Mutunga, and Gitobu Imanyara among dozens of others. But none equaled Pheroze’s steadfastness and fighting spirit from beginning to end. Former Chief Justice Maraga added himself to this group by his historic annulment of the 2017 presidential election, and by refusing to accept a legislature without the required gender balance. And of course no list would be complete without the incomparable Yash Pal Ghai.
As Raila Odinga said in his tribute, “for as long as Kenyans have fought for their civil, political liberties and freedoms, Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee has been there, steadfast, and unbowed as the People's Attorney. His thoughts and footprints are in every milestone we have attained as a country, including the Constitution of 2010. His passing marks the end of a historic era and leaves a gap that will be almost impossible to fill.”
Betty Kaari MurungI also made a similar point, that Pheroze’s shoes will be virtually impossible to fill. But what is even sadder is that there are few notables in our top legal ranks who are even thinking of filling those shoes. Societies no longer emphasize service and sacrifice as the key to progress; the growing hegemony of the neo-liberal order emphasizes acquisition over all else.
So this tribute to Pheroze needs to be much more than an account of his greatness and sustained courage, and the astounding range of his multi- faceted engagements with every segment of struggling society. To do justice to his achievements and to his constant search for analysis and solutions, we must interrogate both the practice of law and the goals and values of society, which are foundational to equitable, just, and harmonious social relations and peace.
For example, it is obvious that even the successful pro-people model that Pheroze developed to fight injustice is not capable of arresting poverty, oppression and violent conflicts and wars that are the root causes of the ills Pheroze and so many others fought against. Indeed, as Pheroze explained himself in a lengthy KBC interview two years ago, he recognized the limitations of his efforts and decided to join a political party in 1992 to better address the issues that perpetuate most of our ills.
But let me continue with Pheroze’s exceptional life, which I cannot imagine could have been more beautifully lived in this world. In addition to being showered with accolades, he and Villoo were first devoted to their parents’ welfare and subsequently raised three exceptionally talented and accomplished children.
Pheroze’s life was spent, from beginning to the end at age 85, with service to humanity, later especially to youth, till literally his last few days. A peek into his life at an event on March 14, just days before he travelled to the US and left us forever, will yield clues to why he was so loved.
Pheroze that day was the honoured guest at the Mathare Social Justice Centre, which is run by a group of immensely committed and knowledgeable folk who till recently were youth. Founded in 2013 on soil consecrated by the blood of Mau Mau freedom fighters and whose founding projects included taking on the extra judicial killings of young Mathare residents and also the intimidation of decades-old squatters, to make way for land grabbers. Pheroze, an early supporter and mentor, was deeply loved by this dynamic group for his thoughtful advice on these extremely sensitive subjects.
Pheroze was accompanied to the Centre by his great friend and patriot, Prof Kamoji Wachira, visiting from Canada, and escorted among others by Gacheke Gachihi, the Centre’s dy

Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee was more than a legal mind. He was a steady hand during turbulent times, a quiet force in the long walk toward Kenya’s second liberation.

I met him in June last year, in Atlanta. We had come together to honor Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, and Senior Counsel was the keynote speaker.

I arrived a day early and met up with a few friends from the organizing team. Someone suggested we grab a meal, and I agreed to meet them in the hotel lobby to share an Uber.

When I got there, I saw my friend deep in conversation with a gentleman. A calm presence, silver-haired and alert, with eyes that seemed to hold both fire and patience. That was Senior Counsel.

I waited, then walked over. “I’m from Baricho, Kirinyaga,” I told him, “the land between the Rupingazi and Sagana rivers.”

He threw his head back and laughed, a warm, full laugh that caught me off guard. This was the man who had stood before judges, who’d carried the constitution like a shield, and here he was, laughing with me like an old friend.

We all climbed into the Uber. No airs, no titles, just a man among men. The ride was barely twenty minutes, but what a gift it was. We spoke of Kenya, her wounds, her hopes, the fragile weight of her democracy. I said something—I can’t remember what—but he answered, “Whoever controls the procurement of election material will always win.”

A simple sentence. But it landed with the weight of years, and truth.

At the restaurant, it turned into a little Kenya. Laughter spilled across the table, stories flew like chapatis on a Sunday morning. I noticed he had a soft spot for samosas, which I’ve never cared for, but we found our common ground in mango lassi. Sweetness. Maybe that is what drew us to each other in that brief moment.

The next day, at Ngũgĩ’s event, Senior Counsel arrived early. His son walked beside him. I noticed how he moved. He was slower, more deliberate. It struck me then: carrying a nation leaves a mark. But there was no bitterness in him, no burden. Just presence.

When he stood to speak, his words carried the weight of decades. He didn’t just reflect, he reached forward, urging the Gen Zs not to let up. He believed in them.

I made sure to find him afterward, and shared how his words cut deep. What I didn’t tell him was that his presence during the chaos leading up to the event said even more. When allegations were made targeting Ngũgĩ—people dropped out and gave the event a wide berth. In fact, almost all murima disappeared.

But not Senior Counsel.

He came to honor the author, not the man. Because he understood something sacred: that even flawed men can give us flawless truth.

Now the night before during diner, someone had brought up my love for concocting stories and Senior Counsel got curious. I told him about the book i was working on, and how it was taking longer than planned.

The next day, just before everyone dispersed, he called his son and asked him to bring a copy of bis book “A Kenyan Journey..”

His son returned with it. Senior Counsel signed it and handed it to me. He wrote:

“Sharing a Calling?

That moment broke something open in me. Why give me his only copy? He didn’t explain. He just smiled and passed it on. That trust, unspoken, will never leave me.

He was great in the courtroom. But even greater in the lobby, the Uber, the diner, the quiet moments where he made you feel seen.

Today, tributes are everywhere: from those who knew him intimately, and from others, like me, who only caught a glimpse of his light.

To his family, I offer no words strong enough to carry your grief. Only this small truth: you shared him with a nation, and we are better for it.

Rest well, Senior Counsel.

The legal fraternity, human rights advocates, social justice militants and countless individuals across Kenya and beyond mourn the passing of Pheroze Nowrojee, a towering figure in law, justice, and public service. A man of unwavering principle, profound intellect, and deep empathy, Pheroze’s life was a testament to the enduring power of courage and compassion in the face of injustice. He passed away too soon, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Pheroze was a product of a nation grappling with colonial rule and the subsequent struggles for independence. Educated at the University of Nairobi and later abroad, he distinguished himself early as a brilliant legal mind. However, it was not just his sharp intellect that set him apart—it was his unshakable commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law that defined his career.

Nowrojee’s legal practice spanned decades, during which he took on some of the most politically sensitive and socially significant cases in Kenya’s history. He was a fearless advocate for human rights, often representing the marginalized and oppressed against powerful interests. His work during the 1980s and 1990s, a period marked by political repression by the Moi regime in Kenya, was particularly notable. At great personal risk, he defended detainees, spoke out against torture, and challenged authoritarianism, earning him both admiration and persecution.

Beyond the courtroom, Nowrojee was a scholar and educator. He lectured at the University of Nairobi’s School of Law, shaping the minds of future lawyers and instilling in them the values of integrity and justice. His writings, including legal commentaries and human rights reports, remain essential references for those studying law and governance in Africa. He also wrote one of the best biographies of Pio Pinto, who was assassinated by the Kenyatta regime.

Nowrojee was deeply involved in civil society, serving in leadership roles in organizations such as the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC)* and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ). His contributions to constitutional reform in Kenya were instrumental in shaping the country’s legal framework, advocating for a more equitable and just society.

Yet, for all his professional achievements, those who knew him personally remember a man of remarkable humility and kindness. He mentored countless young lawyers, never too busy to offer guidance. His dry wit, love for literature, and quiet generosity endeared him to friends and colleagues alike. I shall miss him deeply: he was incredibly supportive during the crisis that led to my being forced to resign from Pambazuka News.

Pheroze Nowrojee’s passing leaves a void in Kenya’s legal and human rights landscape. However, his legacy endures in the lives he touched, the precedents he set, and the principles he upheld. As Kenya and the world reflect on his contributions, one truth remains evident: his life was a beacon of hope in dark times, a reminder that one person’s dedication to justice can indeed change the course of history.

Martin Luther King reminded us that “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” – Pheroze Nowrojee’s life was proof of that belief. May his soul rest in power. My condolences to his family.

SC Pheroze Nowrojee was one of the exceptional legal giants we have ever had as a country. He was anti-authoritariniasm. He was deep rooted in the cause of justice. As a
country, the loss of SC,Pheroze is deeply a monumental blow to human rights family not only in Kenya but also around the globe. However, one thing must strikingly inspire
us. SC, Pheroze
Nowrojee legacy will transcend generation after generation.May his family, friends and relatives receive strength during this dark hour. Travel well the man of justice Pheroze. We'll dearly miss your boldness and consistent pursuit for justice.

The full moon hangs in the sky as I re-read Pheroze’s poems. Thirty-one pages held together with a binder clip. Pages that Pheroze painstakingly photocopied to gift to me at the end of our first meeting almost two decades ago. The pages are different sizes. The stack is uneven. The blue ink of the poem titles is fading. This collection has travelled across continents with me.

From MAY DAY, May 1:

I shall celebrate this holiday by working –
For the other days in the year too
To become, in similar praise,
International workers’ days.

Quantum physics tells us that the energy we are composed of cannot be destroyed, only transformed. That far from resting in death, the particles of our physical being disperse throughout the universe. Every atom that was Pheroze will continue to vibrate, to clarify, to illuminate, in the largest imaginable arena. Liberated from the constraints of matter, Pheroze is now a radiance at work in the infinity of the cosmos.

Dear Villoo, Binaifer, Elchi, Sia and family, know that you are held in your loss by webs of care that cross oceans and continents. Dear Pheroze, fo the work of ten lives that you packed into one, for the trails you blazed for all of us, for the battles you fought for all of us, for the losses you suffered undaunted, asante, asante, na tena asante. In standing always with truth against power, with justice against greed, with the people against the oligarchs and the tyrants, you made us all larger and braver. May we too never celebrate more than we work, until every day is become the world of our collective dreaming.

SC Pheroze Nowrojee has left a great impact in the legal profession with his immense contributions to the practice of law. He was a brilliant mind whose teachings and practices will continue shaping the practice of law for years to come.

Rest in perfect peace SC. Your legacy will continue for generations to come.

Working with the Late Pheroze Nowrojee SC was one of the highlights of my career. He was quick to acknowledge (and even praise) and slow to criticize. His contribution to the profession will not be forgotten.

May he rest in peace.

A collosus of a man!! Although I met and engaged with him a few times only, he made a lasting impact. We met on a diaspora platform. His depth of research and breadth of knowledge were so impressive, and delivered with the greatest amount of humility. A brilliant mind with a heart to match, such a rare combination! We spoke at length about South Africa and its fragile democracy and he recounted the early years of struggle here and the 'peaceful' negotiations in which he played a part. A great champion of social justice and one who can rightly claim to have lived and died true to the cause of peace and justice for all...

Pheroze Nowrojee transcended his profession as a lawyer to become a figure of striking moral leadership in Kenyan society. Nowrojee was by the late Achroo R. Kapila's own admission, the most brilliant pupil who had ever worked under him. He was to become as Kapila predicted the most outstanding legal mind of his generation. His commitment to Kenyan society and political development is not questioned even by his most vociferous opponents in countless courtroom jousts.

But Pheroze Nowrojee was also a prodigious writing talent who contributed to our understanding of ourselves as Kenyans. But most importantly that he practised and flourished in Kenya as a professional and an artist was a testament to the Kenya he struggled for and ultimately won.

Pheroze Nowrojee's passing is very sad for me. I connected with Mzee at a personal level and his vibes rekindled those of my late father. He was a kindred spirit and very kind to me. I'm sure many more shared the experience with this Mzee. He was a patriot that loved Kenya and counseled many of us how to improve it. I will miss him dearly 😢 💔. Rest in eternal peace Mzee Pheroze.

https://wetransfer.com/downloads/072785ba1ac07e12650f903eb5010aae20250411000347/cad6d2d81ecc633bb425aa796403279120250411000347/e43e66?t_exp=1744589027&t_lsid=fa111eab-3a16-43c3-b933-7462258cb0c1&t_network=email&t_rid=Z29vZ2xlLW9hdXRoMnwxMDk1NTQ1NTUzNzUzOTIxNDA2MzY%3D&t_s=download_link&t_ts=1744329827&utm_campaign=TRN_TDL_01&utm_source=sendgrid&utm_medium=email&trk=TRN_TDL_01

Pheroze was a great Pupil Master and Teacher of "Life"

Your exemplary work has changed Kenya. Your work speaks loud and clear for justice.

Words may not aptly capture the deep impact he made to all those that intersected with him directly and indirectly. He was such a big soul and I was privileged to meet and share with him, especially over the past one year when he gave me great counsel on how to transform my passion for constitutionalism into a successful law career.
Fare thee well, SC Pheroze; you may no longer be with us but your memories and legacy will forever remain!

I join countless others in mourning the passing of Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee, a true giant of the legal profession whose wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice left an enduring mark on our continent, indeed our world. His courage in standing for the oppressed, his eloquence in the courtroom, and his quiet brilliance will be remembered as a guiding light for all who believe in the rule of law and human dignity.

To his beloved family, I extend my heartfelt condolences. May you find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind—one of integrity, compassion, and purpose. His memory will continue to inspire not only the legal fraternity but all who strive to make our society more just and humane. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Rest well SC. You truly lived and left a mark and legacy.

Thanks for your contributions to justice in Kenya and the world beyond. Glad we had a chance to give you your flowers while you could smell them at Ngugi wa Thiong'o's June 2024 event in Atlanta and at our September 2024 Kenya Scholars and Studies
Association conference in Atlanta.

I thank your family for being kind enough to lend you to us. They are the unsung heroes.

This is a dark day for everyone who knows a love Phiroze. One of Africa's finest legal minds has taken his final bow. A colossus of Constitutional Law and Human Rights. A giant human with a gentle soul. A paragon of morality. Auntie Vilou's better half for 70 years. A father to Elchie, Sia and Binaifer, and to Gina and Chris; a grandfather; and mentor and inspiration to a generation of lawyers.

I'm going to miss your firm but gentle hugs, and your effortless smile and brilliant and inquisitive mind uncle Pheroze. We are all going to miss everything about you. Kenya, Africa and the world is poorer with your loss.

We promise we are going to hold your beloved auntie Vilou tighter and mend her broken heart until you meet again.

Rest in Peace Adv. Pheroze Nowjoree, SC. The heavens have just gained one of this generations finest lawyers. Your legacy will live on forever.o

Rest well SC. You played your part on Earth. You were the star. We pray and hope to follow your footsteps. Rest well SC Doctrine of Necessity

I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of such an inspiring and remarkable man. His legacy of love, wisdom, and passion for justice not only touched my life but also inspired a generation of youth from Spelman and Morehouse. Through his words and unwavering commitment, he instilled in them a firm belief in democracy and encouraged them to pursue studies in law, so that they might advocate for humanity with compassion and integrity.

I am praying for his lovely soulmate, Villoo, all his children, and those he embraced along his life’s journey. I am honored to have been one of them thanks to my aister Gina for connecting us all, and my heart is simply broken by this loss. His vision and dedication will continue to resonate in all the lives he touched, nurturing a legacy of activism, hope, and enduring love.

Please know that my thoughts are with you during this painful time. May the memories of his extraordinary life and the indelible impact he made provide comfort and strength in the days ahead.

With heartfelt condolences, Nichelle Gainey

One of the privileges of doing the kind of work I do, in and around civil liberties law and justice policy and practice, has been to meet the very best people on Earth. Without doubt Phil was that – the best of the best. What luck to have known him. Each time we met, whether in Kenya or in India my sometimes flagging heart felt restored: knowing there was someone there, continents away, whose quiet steady service was dedicated 24x7 to making those heart-held values of justice real for all of us. His work and his life example have, I have no doubt, spawned a generation of people who will go on doing the good and righteous thing in the future because they have him as their talisman. One has to look no further than his fine family -Binaifer, Elchi, Sia to see that legacy. My abiding affection to them and Villoo always.

Simply the most remarkable man we were all blessed to know. A man with endless curiosity about the world and with a boundless ability to love.

Phil I will miss you and thank you for the person you were. They could never be another

Love you

I don't really have the words to say how much I will miss Pheroze. I feel so incredibly lucky to have been able to spend time with him, to have listened to his stories, and to have laughed with him over the last few years.

Pheroze was always so generous- with his time and his wisdom and his kindness. When I first came to Nairobi it was Pheroze and Villoo who truly made me feel welcome, like I was one of them. His door was always open for anything and anyone. He really cares so deeply. Getting to know his family has been amazing. He will be so missed by so many people.

Sending all of my love to Villoo the family xx

Celebrating the life and times of a dear friend, colleague, and selfless patriot. I worked with SC Nowrojee on several scholarly articles and publications. Ohhh! What a jovial man. In particular, the Asian-African Heritage Exhibition at the Nairobi National Museum. I recall his broad smile throughout the day. May the Almighty God grant him His mercies and comfort his family during these trying moments. Long live his honour.

Dear Bin. Though I'm sad to be joining late this outpouring of sympathy and solidarity for you and your family, it has given me the privilege of spending several revelatory hours poring over these encomiums to your father and getting a small sense of his extraordinary life. I've been blown away by the words of so many who saw in SC Nowrojee a "quiet giant who guarded Kenya's conscience," an irresistible force for good, and a hero for our time. In reading these tributes, it's impossible not to detect his powerful influence on you and on your life's work. I join with everyone here in wishing you peace and serenity in the difficult days ahead.
With deep admiration and fondness,
Steve

The world has lost a person who's very existence has been to fight for humanity's existence, even at his own risk and that of his family. This man so loved his Country and fearlessly fought for the People and Country's democratic survial. If only we could all take a paragraph from his existence, what an assuring world this would be. I will treasure his values and resilience. Meeting him has been like that book you must read to understand values, humanity and humility.
May His Soul Rest in Peace. Chris Mensah.

What can one say about this incredible man and indeed the legacy he leaves behind. For me and more so in recent years, Pheroze was friend first and then a sort of grandfather. Always smiling, always inquisitive and always willing to include everyone in his wonderful stories. I am so fortunate to have had a number of interactions with Pheroze in recent years. A man who was serious about his craft, passionate about justice and could still make a table full of people giggle. My heart and prayers go out to the entire family, for when people leave the void is always substantial, but the void Pheroze leaves is of a different magnitude altogether.

A wonderful, gentle, gem of a soul. Go well, Pheroze, you leave behind massive footprints for Kenya to follow and an inimitable history for the generations. Kenya and Kenyans will celebrate your legend for generations to come.

A TRIBUTE TO COMRADE PHEROZE NOWROJEE, SC.

Dear Comrades, Friends, and Compatriots,
I stand before you today, unfettered and fulfilled to have interacted with Comrade and friend, Pheroze Nowrojee.
I am, however, broken, tattered, and shaken by the fact that one of the pillars of the movement has been shaken. One of the oases of wisdom has been dried up from the bustling and naturalness of our being and from our midst. It is a dark moment for us all.
I am delighted to have been invited to the Kenyans Ideas Festival today, which is happening at a critical and timely moment for our country.
I am Wanjira Wanjiru, hailing from the Mathare Social Justice Center, the Social Justice Centers Working Group, the organic intellectuals’ network, and the Matigari reading group, where we interacted with Pheroze in the course of our work.
I remember Pheroze as an authentic organic intellectual who stood by not only what was favorable for the people, but what the masses of the Kenyan people needed. A down-to-earth servant of the people who wore a cordial smile, an infectious laughter, and an adorable acumen in his interactions. He did not cease to put his penmanship to work in the course of advancing ideas. Ideas are the foundations of actionable reason and action. This is one of the qualitative values that we have lacked in the Kenyan political realm. Ideas that transform our being, mentality, and total social transformation.
Additionally, the Social Justice Movement shares as a common similarity with the legal fraternity will remember him as a stalwart in the field of advancing constitutionalism and values of good governance, leadership, and integrity.
He was an erudite, analytical and sharp organizer who believed in the people’s power and its magnitude towards achieving social justice. He was a holistic being, curved with wise counsels in the intellectual realm, galvanized with a set of humility and galvanized with a collective sense of consistency in the struggle for social justice.
On the 14th of March 2025, we had a fiery and inspiring interactive session at the Mathare Social Justice Center, where he interacted with young organizers and the organic intellectuals. It was a lively presentation on the nature of the struggles during the anti-colonial liberation war during the Mau-Mau. He had prepared a lively presentation revering the contributions of Makhan Singh, Pio Gama Pinto, and his participation in the liberation struggles both in Goa and in Kenya, Mbiyu Koinange and Bildad Kaggia. Figures that we adore and have since been absolved by history. He never forgot to call out the betrayers and captors of historical developments and those who siphoned and milked the Kenyan resources and betrayed the course of freedom. He emphasized constancy, acknowledging the transcendence of struggle, from the Mau Mau, the post-independent movement in the DTM, the clamor for constitutionalism, and the attempts that the young people are arduously involved in the contemporary struggles. I read aloud my best excerpt from Matigari. Almost three weeks later, we learnt of his untimely death. We, however, acknowledge and are fulfilled by his interactions and the knowledge, time, and counsel he offered.
Pheroze to us remains a towering figure who set an example we should all follow. His legacy should be protected by all means necessary against the forces of erasure.
This morning, I remembered my comrades reminding me of a quote he noted during his interaction with Wambui Kaggia, that ‘We should not only remember our heroes, we should also remember those who betrayed us.’

Long live his undying Spirit!
4/7/2025.

A Tribute to Comrade Pheroze,

My dear Comrade, you did not prepare us for the sudden transition. It occurs to me that it happened so fast and so soon. It was less than two weeks, we were together in Mathare. Your appearance was healthy, sharp, recuperating, and full of life before I learnt of the rude reality: that you had sadly been plucked from our midst. I am deeply convinced and contented knowing you have joined your comrades for social justice. You have accompanied comrade Pio Gamma Pinto and Bildad Kaggia, who joined our ancestors long before. I hope you would have had the necessary means to inform Comrade Kaggia before your transition that you were writing a book about your experiences and interactions with him. Please tell Mama Wambui Kaggia that you narrated to us about her contributions. You narrated with immense passion concerning her assertion. That;
‘We should not only remember our heroes but also the people who betrayed our struggle.’
In retrospect, the Gen-Zs and millennials of this country should carry on with the struggle for a transformed country. Highly carrying Mama Wambui Kaggia’s clarion call in confidence and deeply engraved in our minds and hearts.
I tend to believe that our memories preserve some moments and encounters with rare individuals whose presence, no matter how brief, leaves an indelible mark in our lives. That is how I hold the memories we made, dear comrade Pheroze. Memories of the evening conversations around your kitchen dining table over coffee, grinding chevda in amusement of your interesting, insatiable narrations of historical occasions. Softly, as you sat on your seat, as if remembering an encounter, sipping your Coke. We laughed, joked, and had lengthy discussions concerning the state of the country, discussing what should be done. Your gentle laughter and compassion are among the many inspiring memories jogging our minds. It is indisputable to those like myself who were fortunate to meet you that your unwavering commitment to justice and activism made you a beacon of light to many.
Though our time together might have been limited, your influence was immense. Your intellect and insight were far beyond measure, yet you carried them with humility and grace. You embodied an exposition of selflessness, always prioritizing the collective good. You believed deeply in the power of activism to bring change, not just through words but through actions, and you showed that in the court rooms-quite, persistent, and determined.
Your commitment to social justice and equity in this country, as well as your unwavering advocacy for the rights of the marginalized, was nothing short of inspiring. You have displayed qualities of leadership. Which should never be endowed in seeking recognition, but in staying true to the beliefs and principles of social justice and serving others with utmost dedication.
Comrade Pheroze, your impact has been felt. Your wisdom continues to resonate sharply with my experiences, inspiring those of us who were impacted by your life. We are forever grateful for your sacrifices. You will always be remembered as a wise and selfless intellectual, whose legacy lives on in the circles, workplaces, organizations, and primarily in the minds of those who have given their all fighting for dignity, social justice, and a better Kenya. We will keep on the fight, breathe life into the GEN-Z memorization campaign, write your name alongside the martyrs of our generation like REX and the more than 70 young people who were mercilessly killed by RUTO and his mercenary regime.

With much admiration
Comradely,
Njeri Mwangi
MSJC|Organic Intellectuals

2/11/2025- By the streams of Mathare River.

TRIBUTE TO COMRADE PHEROZE,
Comrade Brayan,
Your physical presence might have departed from our presence, but your legacy lives on, amongst all of us, who have committed to take up the struggle for liberation, heed the call for a just world.
You passed on the baton in a historic and legendary fashion. The country has lost one of its most rare beacons for integrity and social justice as the struggle for change grows more intense and ever demanding. Calling upon all fighters and believers of change to stand upon the rallying call, fitting into the huge gap that has been left by the passing of the gallant fighter for social justice, Pheroze Nowrojee.
You were a perfect demonstration of a holistic being who carries most virtues of what comradeship looked like, an apt coherence of what the struggle bears, our roles and responsibilities, espousing a blend of tactical approaches twisted in a clever guide to action. Your wise counsel in the evenings, accompanied by the soft saxophone tunes from afar, under the dim glowing lights, equipped me with resounding insight and sharpened my historical accuracy.
You have been revered continentally as a stalwart in the legal field, you have been identified as a hero of the quest for democracy and social justice. You have been praised as a great poet and author. You have been named for your kindness, remembered for your good deeds and laughter, your soft-spotted and tactically correct claws. We remember you as a comrade. You fell in the line of duty. History will absolve you.
On the 13th of March, during our last interaction at the inter-generational exchange meeting with the Organic Intellectuals, you observed that there were notable political developments in the country. Focusing especially on how the young people had zealously taken up their tasks, vigorously and courageously elucidating the tasks of the young people. You did not only invoke the strength and contribution of those who came before us, Makhan Singh, Pinto, Kaggia. You also reiterated the sabotage role played by those who slain the freedom fighters and betrayed the course for freedom and justice. You passed the mantle, insisting on the values of steadfastness, consistency, and being equipped to overcome the difficulties that we may encounter and avoid recurring mistakes.
You were erudite in all the spheres of life. You insisted on the tactics we had at our disposal, using your experience as a lawyer, pursuing a trajectory of social justice and preservation of history. Your laughter and counsel baffles my inspiration now and then. You insisted that our ideas were powerful and it was wrong and unacceptable to take any lesser, but to make them even popular among the masses, appeal to their moral consciousness, and guide an actionable transformation.
Just as you left, as it was in history, they have intensified their rogue offensives against literature and art, dispersing innocent children who have been conscientised by their realities. An emerging set of radical generation arising from a different front. You reminded us to safeguard and protect the Katiba and its gains. You have religiously held on to this task. Espousing the best example of integrity.
The gallantry and astuteness you expressed are comparable to joining the realm of Bildad Kaggia, Pio Gama Pinto, and all historic giants who transited in the correct path of history.
We shall protect the gains of the constitution, participate actively in the struggle for preservation of history, in the struggle of memory against forgetting, and carry on the fight for social justice, undeterred, unfettered.
We have been bestowed with a historical role, we have been left with such a huge gap to fill.
Dear Pheroze, Rest in Power.
4/11/2025.
Githurai.

We the Friends of KCDF-US Board and the Kenya Community Development Foundation Board, Staff, and Trustees, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee.

His exceptional work in the legal field and his strong dedication to justice will forever be engrained in our memories not only in Kenya but globally.

During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues.

I was truly star struck by Pheroze SC's brilliance. I found him awfully talented - I said as much often. Pheroze was a lawyer's lawyer. I once asked if we didn't need the rank of Super Senior Counsel to accommodate counsel of his calibre.

His performance in delivering the rejoinder in Raila 2017 (when I first met him) rings clear in my memory and definitely won the case and set a precedent. What a gentle legal giant! And the way that he carried his brilliance with humility was such a rare feat.

We will cherish and honour your memory SC. Your legacy is so rich.

Pheroze Nowrojee : What a Man! A Man for the Ages

A sage for the ages. A savant in the law. A tireless servant of public causes - a public intellectual, poet, scholar.

Pheroze effortlessly combined the rambunctiousness of direct street activism, with the majesty of the old-fashioned, traditional chambers-based legal practice - and without causing tension between the two. A man of immense knowledge and high class, both clothed in disarming humility, he embodied the best of humanity- at the personal, professional, political levels.

A veritable Man of Letters: his vast prose prowled our conscience, opening new vistas of knowledge; his poetry, pithy and pointed, growled at the excesses of power.

Pheroze’s intellect was ferocious. His wit was lethal. He was a legal force of nature. A redoubtable jurist - the ultimate maestro of court room advocacy and courtesy - he made advocacy attractive and seductive, exploring and patrolling the boundaries of the law with such remarkable ease, depth, and dazzle.
His pursuit of public causes was deep and earnest, powered by a genuine quest for a better Kenya. And his generosity and humility was endless. He listened. He mentored. He encouraged. He gave.
Thank you for showing us that intellectual heft need not be haughty. Thank you for showing us that professional success licenses not arrogance. Thank you for showing us how to wear life’s gifts and successes with grace and humility. Thank you for your moral voice and moral courage.

We regret the loss of a great mind. The world has lost a great man. Humanity will miss one of its best Homo Sapiens. But his beautiful legacy lives on - certainly in his exemplary deeds, conduct, writings , and family. Rest in Peace Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee - a man who was a father , a mentor , a friend, and a great inspiration to me.

Duncan Okello
Commissioner, Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC) & Chief of Staff, Office of the Chief Justice,2011-2018.
April, 2025
Nairobi

You were one of a kind, a true Patriot, deep in all perspectives- legal, social, political, humanistic philosophy and ideologically clear

I remember when I came to your house, then opposite the Nairobi Hospital, and how deep we shared on many issues that were bedeviling the nation then, and especially the extrajudicial killings that were happening in the country. The only key you said was, please document everything that came your way, for one day, the truth will be known for justice to be done.

Pheroze, you have walked the journey and kept the faith to humanity.

May your great soul rest in Power, a rare blessing to humanity.

Heard the sad news and we were saddened too.
Pheroze was such a lovely sunny person. Dorab got the news first and called me and then we were talking about how he encouraged Dorab and even joined the model UN he had organised in school as a guest online. Dorab wanted to intern under him as he was the "first real lawyer" he met and it was thru Pheroze uncle that his journey began.

We all will miss him and his smilling face. We were looking forward to meeting him and Villoo aunty on their Bombay visit. Hope Villoo aunty is fine.

Our sincere condolences to you and the family.
If there is anything we can do in Bombay for the family, do let us know.

I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. It is a deep loss for our country and the world- he was so admired, so loved.

I’m holding you Elchi and your family in my prayers. I hope you find moments of peace, connection, and comfort in this time of transition.

You carry so much of him - so quietly and beautifully. May his spirit continue to live on through you.

With all my love,

My dearest Villoo,

Words cannot express how saddened and heartbroken we are to hear of Pheroze’s passing. Our prayers are with him — may his soul find eternal peace.

Pheroze was truly an exceptional man. A true gentleman in every sense — dignified, kind, gracious. They say God rarely creates such men, and Pheroze was one of a kind. That rare soul whose presence brought calm, whose character commanded quiet respect, and whose warmth touched all who knew him.

You and Pheroze, my dear Villoo, always cherished and upheld the bonds of old family ties - something so special and admirable. The Rattansi family was blessed to be one of those connected through this enduring friendship.

Our hearts go out to you, Binaifer, Sia, and Elchi. We know how much he meant to each of you, and we know how deeply he loved you in return. As we think back on the times we shared, I can still see his gentle smile and hear his calm, reassuring voice. Pheroze truly was a gem — and he will be dearly missed by so many.

You carry with you a lifetime of beautiful memories, and through them, he lives on.

With all our love and prayers,
Vijoo, Imran, and Safina Rattansi

Pheroze Nowrojee, a man whose life’s work was in supporting those who often had little, yet had the most to lose, who fought tirelessly to uphold the rule of law and to protect our human rights. He was both revered and, I suspect, disliked by those he challenged, in equal measure, but in whatever capacity you met him, you could be certain of being treated justly and with great equanimity.
Behind his work was a man who nurtured traditional family values, yet remained open to new experiences. Someone who enjoyed an eclectic taste in music (Joan Baez and Donna Summer spring to mind), who had a deep appreciation of art and history, and who explored his own creativity through the written word, and collection of railway artefacts.
I am more than proud to have known this incredible man as my Uncle Phil.

Thank you for keeping us posted about Pheroze Nowrojee’s final journey. Unfortunately, I cannot join the memorial service in the US and hope there will be an occasion to pay my respects in Kenya.

Pheroze will be always be remembered for his enduring contributions in so many diverse fields of protection and rights in a way few can equal. Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law are at the heart of his legacy, but his literary skills and engagements, his contributions to the evolution of multiparty democracy in Kenya and of course his mentorship of the younger cohort so they can better take over the reins he leaves behind. .

The nation will miss the principled stand, vibrancy, integrity, dedication, sharp intellect and unfailing courtesy that he brought to his all professional and public engagements. Kenya will be the much poorer.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult period. May his courageous soul rest in eternal peace. Kind regards to all.

Francis Okello,
Group Chairman TPS ( Serena)

I met Pheroze in Nairobi through Elchi in 2000. I was 22 and trying to makes sense of the world and my place in it. I travelled to Kenya to understand why ethic violence happened and how youth could better mobilize to prevent violence and break from cycles of extreme poverty in Kibera and other informal settlements. Pheroze encouraged me to keep reaching out, to ask hard questions, and to do something. Research and action. Policy and people. Listening and writing. Heart and head. His perpetually positive attitude reminded me of a favorite quote I heard later from another pioneer, the late Colin Powell: “perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.” When I cofounded Carolina for Kibera, now CFK Africa, the following year and had trouble finding an attorney, Pheroze helped us pro bono. When my cofounder Tabitha Festo, a nurse from Kibera, fell suddenly and deathly ill at age 38 with no husband and four children, Pheroze was there. He wrote her will and that document years later protected Tabitha’s kids from people with bad intentions. He continued to work in service to others until his final days. God bless Pheroze, Villoo, and his amazing family. We love you. Rye

Whilst I did not have the privilege of personal interaction with Pheroze, his contribution to legal.practice and his unwavering zeal was amiable. Like a tremor, we all felt his impact to the furthest corners of our legal world.

He was a justice hero and a shining example for humanity. May Allah rest him in peace my dear. Love to the family

Dear Sia, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I was really hoping to see him a few more times in both our lives as I had such an affection for him. One of the privileges of doing the kind of work I do has been to meet the very best people on Earth. I am sure he has spawned a generation of people who will do good in the future because they are inspired by him. Your own family is such a good example of exactly that. Please can you convey my deepest affection to Villoo, Elchi, and Binaifer. With much much affection Maja

Pheroze will be remembered across the legal profession for the impactful legacy he created through the lessons he shared. He was a voice for the voiceless and a mentor to many. Farewell, Pheroze.

Richard Otene
Senior Court Administrator
Office of the Registrar High Court

I was heartbroken to hear about the passing of your father. Please accept my deepest condolences. I know how close you were and how much he meant to you and your family.

He was a kind, wise, and steady presence—someone who always had a warm smile and thoughtful words. I hope you can find comfort in the memories you shared and the legacy of love and strength he leaves behind.

Dear Binaifer - Alex told me you lost your father. Sending all my thoughts and love your way. Doesn’t matter when we lose our fathers, it’s the worst.
Much love.

Bidding farewell to a loved one is always difficult, regardless of the circumstances. It has been said that grief is the last act of love for our loved ones. It has its own seasons and climes and it comes and goes of its own accord. As such you should listen to it and pay attention to it. I didn't know your dad. I only met him once when he was in the hospital in NY for a procedure, but I know of his sterling reputation in Kenya, and even more importantly, I know a bit of the kind of person he was because I know you, who are his legacy.

I pray that in time, you and the rest of your family can transition from the awful pain of grief to the wonder and gratitude of knowing how much better the world was to have had your dad in it. I wish you peace. 🙏🏿

In the last few months so many people I know have lost loved ones very close to them. For me it's another reminder that we're only on this little rock called earth for just a short period of time and it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another.

35 years ago, Pheroze Nowrojee SC was my pupil master. As always, he continues praying for us with the angels and Saints. His intense legal mind made me appreciate both academic and practical jurisprudence. He epitomized law beyond a natural force or emergent from cultural traditions. He did this by simplicity, humility and consistency. By standing up to leaders, we learned that, ordinary people too have a role in nation-building. We not only depend on leaders to represent us. Also, our daily citizen’s duty entails being witnesses in court, voting at elections, and producing of public peace around us. This is because, a concentrated power, whether in governmental or private hands, is a threat to individual rights. Mr. Nowrojee trained lawyers are trained to represent those who cannot defend their own rights. Our first constitutional responsibility is to defend the vulnerable. He relentlessly upheld universal values transcending any local community or even a state. Following his lead, gives immeasurable dignity. By way of thanks, let’s share his joy for learning and passion for promoting constitutionalism, human rights and the rule of law with others. Personally, asante again to the wider Nowrojee family for unconditionally sharing many gems over the decades. Charles Khamala, Dean, Faculty of Law, Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

We have received with great sorrow the news of the passing of Pheroze Nowrojee, one of the lawyers who courageously volunteered to defend Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad when he was arrested, detained, and charged with possessing classified government documents in Zanzibar in 1989.

Pheroze Nowrojee, who passed away on 5 April 2025, was a staunch defender of justice who stood up to dictatorial regimes. He was a legal luminary and a distinguished and brilliant lawyer, both in his home country, Kenya, and internationally.

We will always remember and honour the great and heroic work he did in the defence of justice. It was he who told Maalim Seif that there was no criminal offence in his case and that the only way to seek justice was to present the case as it truly was: a political trial. It was Pheroze Nowrojee himself who initiated the international campaign to expose the truth of that case and the oppression Maalim Seif was subjected to.

The Maalim Seif Foundation extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all human rights defenders for this immense loss.

Our Dearest Villoo
Shireen just gave us the sad news of our dearest Pheroze. Niloufer, Araeyus and I hasten to convey our heartfelt condolences to you and the entire family.
I was blessed to know Pheroze for over thirty years and I admired his courage and honesty. He was a no nonsense man and we shared so many things in common like reading and music. I on a personal note will miss him a lot. I will miss our political conversations and life in Nairobi. Please convey our condolences to Elchi, Sia and Binaifer. Niloufer is saddened too and will miss him.
Please be strong. Pheroze was a wonderful husband father grandfather and a human being. We salute him. May his soul rest in eternal peace and may you have the strength to bear this loss with fortitude. We share your loss.
Love
Niloufer, Hormazdiyaar Sanaiya and Araeyus

A great man. He had a vision of a better Kenya. He gave it his all. Considering what a herculean task it is , he tried his best. Made a great contribution. We shall honor his memory 🙏

I recall, with pleasure and a sense of privelege, the evening of good food and conversation hosted by pheroze and bin for my family including Yasmeen during our holiday in Nairobi in 2022; as a lawyer who practiced in Pakistan about the same decades and with similar interests and experience as pheroze, we clicked well and I came away from that family holiday with the glow and warmth of his wisdom and friendship; that my daughter, yasmeen, had instantly taken to bin as a “sister” decades earlier during her law school days at Harvard made my visit with pheroze almost a “homecoming”;
I was pleased to later receive from pheroze, likely his last book, Practising an Honourable Profession, with the priceless inscription acknowledging, perhaps, the similarity of our professional journeys: “to parvez, who has already done it”;
I send my heartfelt condolences on the passing of a colossus who shaped and led the legal profession and constitutional developments in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and beyond; I am glad that our paths crossed, however briefly, but the impact endures and lingers in the years since.
Parvez Hassan, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of Pakistan

I cannot believe that Pheroze is no longer here. Since I first met him in my first visit to Kenya in 1994, I have always thought that he was one of the kindest, smartest and most decent person I had ever with so much curiosity and interest in everything and everybody and so much good will for all. He gave of himself not just to me (a friend of Binaifer) but to my entire family and we are all devastated by his loss.

In our family talk about him my mom recalled two lovely visits with Villoo and Pheroze in Nairobi and Lahore, my dad recalls wonderful conversations about their legal careers over dinner in Nairobi, zeeshan is so grateful for all of Pheroze’s help on his thesis on miniature art and Zaki recalls his interest in music. We all loved him and so enjoyed being part of his life.

If we all feel so strongly I cannot even begin to imagine what Villoo, Binaifer, Sia and Elchi must be feeling! He will forever live on in our memories.

We mourn with you on the demise of a brilliant advocate for a better Kenya, while also celebrating the wonderful impact and long standing legacy he imparted to so many that he interacted with.

May Almighty God grant him Eternal Rest as well as peace and comfort to the family and friends that he leaves behind.
🙏🏿

I am deeply moved by the news of your father's passing. Pheroze Nowrojee was a towering figure in Kenya's legal landscape, renowned for his unwavering commitment to justice and his profound impact on matters of national conscience. His legacy as a brilliant legal mind and a steadfast advocate for human rights will forever be remembered and cherished.

As you mourn his loss, may you find comfort in the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of courage, brilliance, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of society. His life serves as a beacon for all who seek justice and equality, and his memory will continue to inspire generations.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with the family.

With deepest sympathy,

Oh! Sad news. @⁨Binaifer⁩ we are with you and your family on this moment of great loss. I pray to lord Ganesh the almighty to give you and your family a strength and courage to overcome grief and pain at this moment. He will be remembered by those worked for democracy, rule of law and constitutionalism not only Kenya but all over developing world. We all of us Kathamdu are with you in this difficult moment. Big Hug from Kathmandu.

Bonjour Binaifer, je viens d'apprendre la douloureuse nouvelle du rappel à Dieu de votre père. J'ai récemment partagé avec lui une journée de travail durant laquelle il m'avait dédicacé son dernier ouvrage sur les questions constitutionnelles du Kenya. Je peux témoigner qu'il a vraiment contribué à faire connaître son pays au plan juridique et que des générations de juristes africains se souviendront de l'avocat humble, disponible et surtout prêt à défendre toutes les causes justes. Je partage la douleur de la famille et prie pour le repos de son âme. Que le Miséricordieux ouvre les portes du Paradis a cet homme qui n'a voulu que du bien pour son prochain. Mes condoléances attristées à ta maman et à toute la famille éplorée.

Dear Bin, Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. In this time of grief, I hope you will also think of the inspiration your father gave you and the quality time you spent with him.

It was a sad moment when I learnt of Pheroze's passing. For he was a great human being, an exceptionally distinguished person, and one of impeccable integrity. A gentleman of real wisdom and true humanity. Pheroze will be missed by all of us, who are his students, for he was a great mentor.

May Viloo, and the rest of your immediate and extended family find in the Almighty the peace, comfort, and solace that surpasses all understanding. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pheroze will live on in my heart, mind, and soul for his searing inteĺect, exceptional humanity, and supreme gentleness. For he may be gone, but he lives on within us.

Pamoja.

Dear Binaifer,
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved father. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.

Your father’s legacy is one that will continue to inspire and impact all who knew him. People have spoken of his commitment, kindness, and wisdom, which will live on in the many lives he touched. I am sure that his influence will remain with you, and his memory will always be a guiding light.

May you find comfort in the lifetime of beautiful memories you hold and in the love and support of those around you. Wishing you strength and peace in the days ahead.

With deepest sympathy,
T

I recall, with pleasure and a sense of privelege, the evening of good food and conversation hosted by pheroze and bin for my family including Yasmeen during our holiday in Nairobi in 2022; as a lawyer who practiced in Pakistan about the same decades and with similar interests and experience as pheroze, we clicked well and I came away from that family holiday with the glow and warmth of his wisdom and friendship; that my daughter, yasmeen, had instantly taken to bin as a “sister” decades earlier during her law school days at Harvard made my visit with pheroze almost a “homecoming”;
I was pleased to later receive from pheroze, likely his last book, Practising an Honourable Profession, with the priceless inscription acknowledging, perhaps, the similarity of our professional journeys: “to parvez, who has already done it”;
I send my heartfelt condolences on the passing of a colossus who shaped and led the legal profession and constitutional developments in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and beyond; I am glad that our paths crossed, however briefly, but the impact endures and lingers in the years since.
Parvez Hassan, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of Pakistan

The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) is devastated by the demise of compatriot Pheroze Nowrojee, Esq.
Pheroze was a distinguished and exceptional human rights and constitutional lawyer, as well as a champion and stalwart of social justice and pro-democracy.
A calm and seasoned general endowed with exemplary intellectual and political acumen, Pheroze remained a steadfast source of support and inspiration to the Kenya Human Rights Commission and the broader human rights movement in Kenya and the region.
May the giant rest in power.

My deepest condolences to the entire Nowrojee family. The world has lost a great man and you have lost a truly beautiful human being. I am so sorry for your loss.

Reading these tributes it’s clear just what a titan your father was, Binaifer, and the giant void his passing leaves.
Sending you and your family love and solidarity.

Dear Villoo, Binaifer and family,
I was so sad to read the news of Pheroze’s passing. I have such fond memories of staying in your welcoming home while passing through Nairobi with Binaifer. All the lovely conversations over tea. I remember fondly a time when Pheroze took me out to dinner for the spiciest Indian street food I have ever had — and our conversation about Canadian politics. It was such an honour to have known him, even so briefly. From Canada, sending much love. You are in my heart.

It’s hard to explain what Phil (Pheroze Nowrojee) meant to me.

I lost my dad when I was very young, and I never imagined life would bring someone else into my world who could offer that kind of steady, quiet love. But then came Phil. For more years than I had with my own father, he was there—gentle, grounded, and always showing up.

He never missed a moment. Birthdays, graduations, weddings, book launches—if it mattered to us, he was there. No fanfare, no fuss—just presence. That was Phil. A quiet anchor in our lives.

When I wrote Daughters of Africa, he read the whole manuscript, page by page, with such thoughtfulness and pride. It meant the world to me. And now, as I work on my next book, the draft was with him too. He was still reading, still showing up.

Natalya and Naythan were so lucky to have him as their grandfather. He loved them completely, and they knew it. He gave them time, attention, and a deep sense of being cherished.

His passing has left a stillness that’s hard to describe. But more than anything, I feel thankful.

Phil taught me that love doesn’t always need words. That being consistent, being kind, being present—those are the things that last. He showed me the quiet strength of simply being there, again and again. I will carry those lessons with me. And I will carry him—with gratitude, always.

One of the best human soul i have ever interacted with,always composed and smiling will for sure miss our physiotherapy session and fatherly advice. REST IN PEACE SC