Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama has been elected President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), defeating his main rivals in a closely fought election at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre on Friday.
Kanjama, a veteran lawyer known for his work in constitutional and public law, won with a clear mandate, beating Peter Wanyama, who garnered 2,616 votes, and Mwaura Kabata, the outgoing vice president, who received 2,086 votes. The elections, held every two years, saw delegates from across the country vote for leaders to steer the society on ethics, professional development, and governance.
In his victory speech, Kanjama promised to unite the profession, uphold the rule of law, and defend the Constitution.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust you have placed in me. This is not just my victory — it is a call to all of us in the legal fraternity to uphold the Constitution, defend justice, and protect the rights of every Kenyan,” he said.
The Ex Deputy President, H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, EGH, lauded Kanjama’s election and that of his council, noting that his leadership comes at a time when the government has faced criticism for flouting constitutional principles.
“Kenyans are very hopeful that under your stewardship, the voice of LSK will be firm in protecting the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and strict observance of the Rule of Law,” Gachagua said. “LSK must lead in safeguarding national assets, fighting theft of public funds, and ensuring the IEBC delivers free, fair, credible, and verifiable elections in 2027.”
The LSK elections, overseen by an independent electoral committee, are open to practising advocates who are fully registered. Delegates cast their votes for president, vice president, and council members, with the process aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness.
Observers said Kanjama’s message of ethical leadership, mentoring young lawyers, and asserting LSK’s voice on national issues resonated with delegates. Legal analysts noted that while he has a strong mandate, he faces the challenge of addressing internal divisions within the society and maintaining independence from political pressure.
“Kanjama’s presidency comes at a time when the rule of law in Kenya needs principled leadership,” said Faith Ochieng, a legal scholar at a local University “His success will depend on his ability to unite the bar and stand firm on constitutional values.”
Kanjama will serve a one-year term, during which he will also represent LSK in regional and international legal forums. Members and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how he strengthens the society’s impact on governance, justice, and the 2027 elections.
