Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo Proposed for Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear Award
Rarieda Member of Parliament Hon. (Dr.) Otiende Amollo, SC, EBS has been proposed by the Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee for the conferment of the prestigious Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS), one of Kenya’s highest national honours awarded to citizens for outstanding service to the nation.
The Committee’s proposal recognizes Dr. Amollo’s long-standing dedication to public service, leadership in constitutional affairs, and his significant contribution to strengthening legislative oversight and governance in the country.
Dr. Amollo currently serves as the Co-Chairperson of the National Assembly Legislative Caucus, a key body that promotes bipartisan collaboration on legislative reforms. He also serves as a Member of the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which are among the most influential oversight committees in Parliament. His active participation in these committees has been widely acknowledged as instrumental in advancing constitutionalism, transparency, and accountability in public institutions.
The Order of the Burning Spear is awarded by the President of the Republic of Kenya to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, or innovation that has significantly benefited the country. The Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear is one of the top ranks within the Order and is reserved for individuals whose contribution to the nation stands out in excellence and impact.
The proposal by the Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee now awaits consideration by the Office of the President, which formally approves and confers state honours after a thorough vetting process. If approved, Dr. Amollo will join a distinguished list of national leaders, jurists, and professionals who have received this honour for exemplary service.
Dr. Amollo, a Senior Counsel and constitutional lawyer, has for years been recognized as a leading advocate for good governance and the rule of law. His career spans more than two decades in legal practice, human rights advocacy, and public service. Before joining Parliament, he served as the Chairperson of the Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman), where he led major reforms to enhance citizens’ access to justice and strengthen institutional accountability.
Since his election as Member of Parliament, Dr. Amollo has remained a vocal advocate for social justice, equity, and adherence to constitutional principles. As Rarieda MP, he has championed policies focused on education, youth empowerment, and improved access to social services within his constituency. His work has earned him respect both within and outside Parliament for his consistency, integrity, and commitment to ethical leadership.
Several legislators have described Dr. Amollo as a man of integrity and vision whose service to the nation has been exemplary. One of his colleagues noted that Hon. Otiende Amollo has been steadfast in defending the Constitution and upholding democratic values, adding that his nomination for the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear is well deserved.
The recognition also highlights the growing role of Parliament in identifying and recommending individuals who have made notable contributions to national development through legislative, legal, or social leadership. The Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee was established to ensure merit-based recommendations for state recognition by evaluating individuals according to their record of service, societal impact, and leadership within public institutions.
Dr. Amollo’s nomination comes at a time when the government is committed to celebrating individuals who have demonstrated excellence and integrity in public service. The honours system serves both as recognition and encouragement for exemplary leadership that aligns with Kenya’s vision for ethical governance and sustainable development.
If confirmed, the conferment of the CBS honour will add to Dr. Amollo’s existing recognition as an Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS), which he previously received for his contribution to law and justice. The elevation to CBS would reflect his continued service at higher levels of national leadership and influence.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Dr. Amollo has been at the forefront of key legislative initiatives including constitutional amendments, judicial independence, and reforms in public finance management. His legal expertise has consistently informed parliamentary debates on complex constitutional matters, earning him respect across the political divide.
In his constituency, he is credited with championing programs that promote education and empowerment. Under his leadership, the Rarieda Constituency Development Fund has prioritized the construction of schools, bursary support for needy students, and improved access to clean water. His development approach focuses on inclusivity and equity, ensuring that marginalized groups benefit from public resources.
Analysts note that the nomination affirms the government’s commitment to recognizing leaders who embody the principles of service above self. Dr. Amollo’s track record in defending public interest cases, mentoring young lawyers, and promoting accountability in governance has made him a key figure in Kenya’s legal and political landscape.
The conferment of the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear would not only be a personal milestone for Dr. Amollo but also a national acknowledgment of his unwavering dedication to justice and democracy.
As Kenyans await the final announcement of this year’s state honours, many view the Parliamentary Committee’s proposal as a timely recognition of a leader whose contributions continue to shape Kenya’s legal and governance frameworks.
If approved by the President, Dr. Otiende Amollo will officially join the esteemed ranks of national heroes and reformers who have helped steer Kenya toward a more just and accountable society.
