The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has officially declared vacancies in key leadership positions, setting the stage for the election of a new council, including the next president to succeed Faith Odhiambo.
In a notice to all members, the society announced that elections will be held in February 2026, in line with the Law Society of Kenya Act, 2014, and the General Regulations of 2020.
The positions declared vacant include those of the President, Vice President, and three representatives of the general membership, one of whom must be an advocate with at least 25 years of experience, among other qualifications, according to the society.
Faith Odhiambo, who assumed office in March 2024, is expected to complete her two-year term in March 2026. Her deputy, Mwaura Kabata, is among those expected to vie for the top position when nominations open later this year.
The LSK Council also comprises three Nairobi representatives, four upcountry representatives, and one coast representative. All current holders of these positions were elected in 2024 and will serve until the end of the council’s term.
According to the LSK regulations, the secretary must issue a formal notice of vacancies at least three months before the elections, giving members adequate time to prepare their nominations.
“The notice serves to inform members of the positions that will fall vacant in March 2026 and to invite eligible candidates to submit their nominations in accordance with the society’s regulations,” the communication stated.
The upcoming elections are expected to attract a competitive field, with attention now turning to potential candidates eyeing the presidency, especially within Odhiambo’s current leadership team.
Odhiambo's Tenure
Odhiambo’s tenure has been marked by both major milestones and controversy.
She is credited with steering the Law Society through a period of heightened public engagement, particularly during the 2024 Gen Z protests, when the LSK under her leadership took a strong stand in defending victims of police brutality.
However, her decision later in the year to accept President William Ruto’s appointment to a panel tasked with compensating victims of police brutality put her at odds with some members of the legal fraternity.
The decision triggered internal dissent within the council, with several advocates accusing her of compromising the society’s independence by taking up a government-linked role.
Advocate Levi Munyeri was among those who publicly criticised the decision, arguing that her appointment created a conflict of interest. In a statement released on September 5, 2025, Munyeri called on Odhiambo to resign, stating that he would file a formal petition seeking her removal if she failed to vacate her position as LSK president.
Despite the controversy, Odhiambo maintained that her participation in the panel was in the public interest, arguing that the initiative aligned with society’s commitment to justice and the protection of victims’ rights.
She, however, later resigned from the panel.
