The legal fraternity in Kenya has just witnessed a pivotal shift in its leadership landscape. On 19 February 2026, advocates across the country cast their ballots to elect new leaders for the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) the statutory body representing more than 18,000 practising lawyers. In a contest marked by robust debate, active participation and high stakes, Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama emerged as the 52nd President of the LSK, marking a defining moment for the profession and for constitutional governance in Kenya.
Leadership with a Mandate
Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama secured a clear mandate with 3,728 votes, outpacing his rivals veteran lawyer Peter Wanyama (2,616 votes) and outgoing vice-president Mwaura Kabata (2,086 votes). His victory signals the legal community’s confidence in seasoned, steady leadership that can navigate the evolving challenges confronting the bar and the nation at large.
In his acceptance speech, Kanjama expressed gratitude to advocates for entrusting him with the presidency and pledged to unite the profession beyond past contest lines. He underlined that his leadership would focus not just on internal cohesion within the bar but also on championing the rule of law, strengthening institutional independence, and enhancing lawyers’ practice and welfare.
What Kanjama Represents: Experience Meets Vision
Kanjama’s campaign, built on the pillars of Rule of Law, Integrity, Practice and Welfare, Engagement and Accountability, resonated with many lawyers who see the need for pragmatic direction and unified purpose at a time when the profession’s voice matters beyond the courtroom.
His manifesto includes:
- Transparent completion of Wakili Towers a long-anticipated project for the profession’s headquarters.
- Establishing an LSK Training Institute to uplift professional standards.
- Institutionalizing a Rule of Law Report to track trends affecting constitutional governance.
- Enhancing support systems for young advocates and in-house lawyers.
These commitments signal a shift toward measurable outcomes, accountability and structured engagement a theme that dovetails perfectly with what Kenya’s next generation of legal professionals is demanding.
Why This Matters at the National Level
The LSK is not just a professional association it is a constitutional actor and a public trust institution. Historically, the bar has played a central role in defending civil liberties, advocating for judicial independence, and scrutinizing legislative and policy shifts that touch on fundamental rights. As Kenya heads towards the 2027 general elections, the LSK’s stance on governance, accountability and the rule of law will be more visible and impactful than ever.
Outgoing president Faith Odhiambo whose two-year term was marked by bold advocacy and institutional activism led congratulations to Kanjama, emphasising the importance of continuity, integrity, and firm stewardship of the society’s mandate.
This transition represents not just a change in leadership but a reaffirmation of the profession’s commitment to principles that transcend everyday practice especially as Kenya grapples with governance and constitutional tests ahead.
A Fresh Lens for Your Campaign: Lawyer Ready & Future-Focused
For legal professionals, this election is more than a bar news story it’s a symbol of agency, preparedness and institutional strength. That’s exactly the narrative Madshaq Digital PR is capturing with the Lawyer Ready Poster Campaign: lawyers who are not reactive participants in their profession’s future, but proactive architects of it.
In this context, the LSK leadership change becomes an invitation a moment for advocates to align with values that matter most in public life: integrity, accountability, readiness and resilience.
As Kanjama takes the helm, the bar’s renewed vigor reminds every lawyer that being ready isn’t just about courtrooms and briefs it’s about influence, impact and stewardship of the rule of law in society.