Senior counsel Charles Kanjama has announced his intention to run for president of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), barely two months after the prominent lawyer Nelson Havi pledged Ksh1 million in support.
In a statement issued on Friday 14 November 14, Kanjama declared his intention to contest for the LSK top seat. If elected, he would serve a single two-year term from 2026 to 2028, replacing Faith Odhiambo, whose term ends next year.
Kanjama, who is seeking to become the 52nd LSK president, revealed that his campaign would focus on the rule of law, integrity, practice and welfare, and engagement (RIPE).
“After thoughtful consideration and counsel, I will run for President of the Law Society of Kenya (2026-28),” Kanjama said.
“The Time is RIPE for a clean principled campaign and leadership focused on Rule of Law, Integrity, Practice & Welfare, and Engagement. Charles Kanjama SC,” he added.
This is not the first time that Kanjama has run for the position of LSK President. He previously contested the post in 2020, eventually losing to Havi. The other contestants were Harriette Chigai and Maria Mbeneka.
In September, amid growing calls for Odhiambo to resign over her involvement in President William Ruto’s Compensation Panel for Victims of Protests, Havi endorsed Kanjama as her successor, urging the legal community to support his campaign.
Havi, a former LSK president, pledged Ksh1 million, a campaign vehicle, his network and agents to support Kanjama's bid to become the new LSK president.
“Serious practitioners of law should prevail upon Charles Kanjama SC to run for LSK President. They should also fund his campaign. On my part, I will donate a vehicle and Kshs 1,000,000, my networks and agents,” Havi noted.
While wading into the debate surrounding Odhiambo and her LSK Presidency at the time, Havi joined the calls seeking Odhiambo's resignation, describing her as an agent of the State.
LSK Leadership Changes
Kanjama’s declaration comes after LSK announced vacancies in key leadership positions, setting the stage for the election of a new council, including the next president.
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.
