Quick Answer
The 2010 Constitution is Kenya’s supreme law, and its Bill of Rights (Chapter Four) guarantees the fundamental rights and freedoms of every person — rights you can enforce in court.
Key facts
- The 2010 Constitution is the supreme law (Article 2).
- The Bill of Rights is in Chapter Four.
- It protects rights such as equality, expression, fair hearing and information.
- You can go to court to enforce these rights.
The supreme law
Under Article 2, the Constitution binds everyone — all persons and all State organs — and any law or act that conflicts with it is invalid to the extent of the conflict. It is the standard against which every other law is measured.
The Bill of Rights
Chapter Four (Articles 19–59) sets out the fundamental rights and freedoms of every person, including:
- Equality and freedom from discrimination;
- The right to life and to human dignity;
- Freedom of expression, assembly and association;
- The right to a fair hearing;
- The right of access to information; and
- Economic and social rights, such as health, education, housing and food.
How rights are enforced
Rights are not just words: under Articles 22 and 23, any person can go to the High Court to claim that a right has been denied, violated or threatened. The State is required to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights in the Bill of Rights.
Why this matters to you
The Bill of Rights is the floor beneath everything else. Knowing your rights is how you recognise when one is being violated — and the Constitution gives you a court you can go to when it is.
Frequently asked questions
What is the supreme law of Kenya?
The Constitution of Kenya 2010 — any conflicting law or act is invalid.
Where are my rights listed?
In Chapter Four, the Bill of Rights (Articles 19–59).
Can I enforce my rights in court?
Yes — any person may go to the High Court under Articles 22 and 23.
Sources & references
- Constitution of Kenya 2010, Articles 2, 10 and 19–23 — klrc.go.ke
- Constitution of Kenya 2010, Chapter Four (The Bill of Rights) — klrc.go.ke