Faith Masita
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) elections roared into action early this morning, with thousands of lawyers across the country streaming into polling centres to elect new leadership in what is shaping up to be one of the most consequential ballots in the Society’s history.
With over 18,000 registered advocates expected to vote under the supervision of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the poll represents more than just an internal contest it’s a referendum on the future role of the legal profession at a critical juncture for Kenya’s constitutional and governance landscape.
Three-Horse Race for the Top Job
At the centre of the drama is a three-way battle for the LSK presidency, cleared after a court ruled a last-minute challenge invalid, allowing Mwaura Kabata, Peter Wanyama, and Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama to remain on the ballot.
Each candidate has pitched a distinct vision:
Mwaura Kabata, the current Vice-President, is campaigning on building continuity while pushing digital reforms and stronger internal services for members. Peter Wanyama appeals to lawyers seeking fresh leadership and sharper advocacy on professional welfare. Charles Kanjama positions himself as a seasoned strategist who can elevate the Society’s influence on national governance.
Why This Vote Matters
The elections come just over a year before Kenya’s 2027 general elections, placing the LSK a key guardian of constitutionalism and the rule of law in the spotlight. Legal observers and senior practitioners have stressed that the next leadership must be prepared to defend judicial independence, push for electoral reforms, and rally the profession around pressing national issues.
Beyond the presidency, advocates are also choosing a Vice-President and Council members who will steer the organisation through some of its most challenging moments, including internal calls for stronger protections against sexual harassment and improved welfare support for young lawyers.
Voting Underway, Results as the results are Expected Tonight
Polling is taking place at designated court venues nationwide, with lawyers turning up in significant numbers since the polls opened. Voting is set to continue throughout the day, with counting to follow and results expected later this evening.
As the legal fraternity casts its ballots, all eyes will be on which leadership will emerge capable of shaping the bar’s response to legal, political, and social challenges in the years ahead.
With over 18,000 registered advocates expected to vote under the supervision of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the poll represents more than just an internal contest it’s a referendum on the future role of the legal profession at a critical juncture for Kenya’s constitutional and governance landscape.
Three-Horse Race for the Top Job
At the centre of the drama is a three-way battle for the LSK presidency, cleared after a court ruled a last-minute challenge invalid, allowing Mwaura Kabata, Peter Wanyama, and Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama to remain on the ballot.
Each candidate has pitched a distinct vision:
Mwaura Kabata, the current Vice-President, is campaigning on building continuity while pushing digital reforms and stronger internal services for members. Peter Wanyama appeals to lawyers seeking fresh leadership and sharper advocacy on professional welfare. Charles Kanjama positions himself as a seasoned strategist who can elevate the Society’s influence on national governance.
Why This Vote Matters
The elections come just over a year before Kenya’s 2027 general elections, placing the LSK a key guardian of constitutionalism and the rule of law in the spotlight. Legal observers and senior practitioners have stressed that the next leadership must be prepared to defend judicial independence, push for electoral reforms, and rally the profession around pressing national issues.
Beyond the presidency, advocates are also choosing a Vice-President and Council members who will steer the organisation through some of its most challenging moments, including internal calls for stronger protections against sexual harassment and improved welfare support for young lawyers.
Voting Underway, Results as the results are Expected Tonight
Polling is taking place at designated court venues nationwide, with lawyers turning up in significant numbers since the polls opened. Voting is set to continue throughout the day, with counting to follow and results expected later this evening.
As the legal fraternity casts its ballots, all eyes will be on which leadership will emerge capable of shaping the bar’s response to legal, political, and social challenges in the years ahead.
