Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama has been elected President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) after clinching 3,728 votes in a tightly contested national election that drew strong participation from advocates across the country.
According to the final results released by the society, Kanjama defeated his closest challenger, Peter Wanyama, who garnered 2,616 votes. The current LSK Vice President, Mwaura Kabata, finished third with 2,086 votes.
The outcome gives Kanjama a clear mandate to lead the professional body during the 2026–2028 term, succeeding outgoing president Faith Odhiambo.
The election, which attracted significant attention within the legal fraternity, saw lawyers from all regions of the country take part in both physical and online voting processes. Observers noted that turnout reflected growing interest among advocates in the direction of the society, particularly at a time when the legal profession is navigating major institutional and policy challenges.
During the campaign period, the three leading candidates advanced competing visions on the future of the Bar, with debates centring on the welfare of advocates, protection of professional independence, the rule of law and the society’s relationship with State institutions.
Kanjama, a seasoned litigator and senior member of the Bar, now takes over leadership of one of the country’s most influential professional associations, which plays a central role in public discourse on governance and justice.
The Law Society of Kenya is widely regarded as a key stakeholder in the protection of constitutionalism, promotion of human rights and defence of access to justice. The body also regularly participates in judicial reform initiatives and legislative processes, often submitting expert opinions on proposed laws and national policy matters.
With his victory, Kanjama is expected to steer the society through a period marked by heightened public scrutiny of legal institutions, ongoing reforms within the justice sector and growing concerns among advocates over practice conditions and professional sustainability.
The election was characterised by vigorous engagement, with candidates actively mobilising support through regional forums, professional networks and digital platforms. Several campaign discussions focused on improving member services, strengthening the voice of young advocates, and safeguarding the autonomy of the legal profession.
Transition arrangements are expected to begin immediately, ahead of a formal handover from the outgoing leadership in line with the society’s regulations.
As he assumes office, Kanjama will be tasked with uniting a diverse membership and translating his campaign promises into tangible reforms, while maintaining the society’s long-standing role as a watchdog on matters of public interest and the rule of law.
