Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi has endorsed Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama’s potential bid for the LSK presidency. Former LSK president Nelson Havi (l) proposed lawyer Charles Kanjama (r) as the next LSK president. The announcement, made on Tuesday, September 9, came amid growing calls for current LSK’s Faith Odhiambo to resign after accepting President William Ruto’s appointment to the compensation panel. Havi encouraged the senior counsel to run for the top seat and called on fellow practitioners to rally behind him and fund his campaign.
He pledged KSh 1 million and additional resources to support Kanjama. In addition to the monetary pledge, Havi committed to donating a vehicle, his professional networks, and campaign agents to bolster Kanjama’s candidacy. “On my part, I will donate a vehicle and KSh 1 million, my networks, and agents,” Havi said. Who is Charles Kanjama? Kanjama, a seasoned litigator with over two decades of experience, is the managing partner at Muma & Kanjama Advocates and leads the firm’s disputes department. His expertise spans commercial, tax, constitutional law, and legal ethics. He is also a certified mediator, secretary, and public accountant. Kanjama previously served as the inaugural chair of the LSK Nairobi Branch (2016–2020) and currently chairs the Kenya Christian Professionals Forum (KCPF), an organisation that promotes family values. Despite Havi’s endorsement, Kanjama is yet to publicly respond.
Why should Faith Odhiambo be replaced? The push for new leadership follows Odhiambo’s appointment as co-chair of a presidential Panel of Experts tasked with facilitating compensation for victims of recent protests. The panel aims to establish a framework for identifying and supporting affected individuals. Odhiambo’s appointment sparked backlash, with critics accusing her of compromising the independence of the LSK by accepting a role in the same government she had previously criticised. Her critics argued that her new position violates the Constitution and LSK statutes, prompting calls for her resignation. Odhiambo, however, has defended her decision, stating that her involvement is driven by a commitment to justice and ensuring victims receive fair treatment.
By Nancy Odindo
