Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama is set to lead the Law Society of Kenya as its 52nd president.
By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has appointed Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama as its 52nd President following an election that saw 8,600 advocates cast their ballots.
One of Kanjama’s contenders, Peter Wanyama, suggested that voter apathy may have played a role in the low participation, noting that many eligible members refrained from voting.
“Although LSK boasts more than 26,000 registered members, only 18,000 are active practitioners with valid certificates. Of these active members, just 8,600 participated in the voting process,” Wanyama explained.
“The turnout figures present a compelling insight. My pre-election projections anticipated around 13,000 advocates would exercise their voting rights, but my estimates proved incorrect.”
Wanyama further remarked that “the silent majority remained absent at the polls,” raising questions about whether structural reforms and technological advancements such as blockchain-based voting systems could help re-engage members.
During his acceptance remarks, Kanjama expressed both gratitude and determination, promising “sober, steady, and disciplined leadership” while emphasizing that “the will of the people holds ultimate authority.”
His statements underscored both the legitimacy of his electoral success and the substantial responsibilities awaiting him as he prepares to assume his duties in March.
Faith Odhiambo served as the outgoing LSK President.
Kanjama will succeed Faith Odhiambo, whose presidential term concluded in accordance with the LSK constitution.
Kanjama’s rivals, Mwaura Kabata and Wanyama, acknowledged defeat but their comments hinted at the difficulties on the horizon.
Kabata expressed sincere gratitude to his supporters and humorously noted that “LSK has emerged victorious, while I’ve only managed to lose weight.”
He committed to backing the new council, particularly highlighting the significance as Kenya approaches national elections.
More critical was Wanyama’s analysis in a comprehensive review, where he cautioned about the diminishing professional opportunities for lawyers and the pressing necessity to explore new practice areas.
“We must decisively, assertively, and vigorously defend our contracting professional domain,” he stated.