The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Members of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) are casting their ballots nationwide in an election to choose a new President, Vice-President and Council members in a crucial race set to shape the legal profession’s trajectory for the next two years.
Voting is taking place at High Court stations across the country, with the process being overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) alongside the LSK Elections Board. Over 20,000 practising advocates are eligible to participate in the biennial poll.
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The election signals the end of the term of outgoing President Faith Odhiambo, who took office in 2024 as the second woman to head the society.
Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama and legal strategist Peter Wanyama are vying to replace her in what is shaping up to be a closely watched contest. LSK rules provide for a single-term presidency, raising the stakes in the 2026 race.
The vote comes amid intensified debate over the society’s independence, following Odhiambo’s brief acceptance — and later resignation — from a government-appointed compensation panel, a move that drew attention to the LSK’s relationship with the State.
For Kanjama, this marks a second attempt at the presidency after his 2020 bid, when he lost to Nelson Havi, who secured 2,675 votes against his 1,246.
Wanyama, who was runner-up in the 2024 election, declared his candidacy on November 7, presenting himself as a reform-driven leader committed to providing focused and decisive leadership.
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In recent years, the LSK has remained highly visible in public affairs, frequently commenting on constitutional issues, legislative proposals and human rights matters.
During Odhiambo’s tenure, the society moved to court to challenge certain government decisions, issued strong statements on governance concerns and consistently positioned itself as a guardian of judicial independence.
The next president will assume office at a time when relations between parts of the legal fraternity and state institutions remain sensitive, with the society regularly called upon to defend civil liberties, examine proposed laws and safeguard the autonomy of the Judiciary.
