Ruth Kamande
From Death Row to Defender of Dignityt
University of London LLB Graduate and Paralegal, Justice Defenders
“When I was sentenced, I felt like this was it. I just wanted someone who could understand me.”
When Ruth Kamande was sentenced to death at Lang’ata Women’s Prison, she believed her future had closed. In the midst of fear and confusion, she longed for a lawyer who would listen to her story and stand with her. That hope arrived in the form of Professor G, one of Justice Defenders legal educators. His compassion and commitment changed the direction of her life. “I said to myself, there are still people like this in the world. I want to become like him.”
Ruth joined the Justice Defenders law programme while living under the weight of a death sentence. The challenges were intense. The books were heavy, the stress was constant, and the emotions difficult to balance. At times she wanted to give up. Yet officers in the prison encouraged her, enrolled her in counselling sessions, and helped her steady her mind so she could continue. Bit by bit, Ruth turned her pain into purpose. She found strength in helping others prepare their cases and teaching fellow women what she had learned.
Her motivation deepened every time someone walked out of prison and returned simply to say thank you. Those moments reminded her why she kept going. Today, after years of focused study, she is preparing to graduate with her University of London law degree. It is a milestone that represents every late night, every moment of doubt and every step she fought to take. “After all the hardship and every effort I put in, I am proud. This graduation means so much to me. I am very, very happy.”
