The High Court is today expected to hear a case challenging the legality of the 2024 national heroes selection process.
The case was filed last year by a foundation dubbed- Safiri Salama Preservation Foundation and its executive director John Nyongesa.
Their case challenges the transparency and constitutionality of the 2024 National Heroes Council selection process.
They claim that the proposed 2024 'heroes' were undeserving of the great honour.
Among those proposed last year were Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi Waciuru and Mnyazi wa Menza (Mekatili wa Menza) as posthumous national heroes.
The applicants stated they have no issues with the said duo as they have been rightfully included but wanted the other proposed 'heroes' reviewed.
Under the Kenya Heroes Act, 2014 such recognition and honor must accrue from distinguished and selfless sacrifice and service to the nation.
The applicants state that only Dedan and Menza fit the description.
Through advocate, Dudley Ochiel, the foundation and its executive director John Nyongesa claimed the state published a list of proposed heroes on their website without justifying why they should be recognized as 'national heroes'
"Declaring ordinary folk as national heroes violates the Kenya Heroes Act and demeans the value and prestige of that honour for the truly deserving," says Ochiel.
They have further cited lack of transparency in the process and inadequate public engagement.
"The state's decision poses a significant risk of distorting Kenya's historical record and national consciousness. That is why the courts should urgently intervene," read their documents in part.
Justice John Chigiti at the time certified the matter as urgent. The matter is to be heard today.
