The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nairobi branch on Wednesday, February 22, condemned the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) for summoning lawyer Danstan Omari, announcing that they would hold protests at the DCI headquarters.
The lawyers stated that the move by DCI was meant to intimidate Omari and cause him to execute his duties as an officer of the court in fear.
LSK questioned the security of other advocates in the country, as a result, noting that it had become a common practice for lawyers in Kenya to look over their shoulders when discharging their duties.
“Lawyers in Kenya have been intimidated in the recent past by external forces that attempt to limit the right to representation and expression.
“The Security of advocates is now in question as the body which is meant to work with the lawyers in the dispensation of justice is now exerting undue pressure to frustrate the existing Advocate - Client relationship between the said Advocate and his client Dr. Fred Matiangi,” LSK statement read in part.
Additionally, LSK referred to the case of lawyer Willy Kimani as a classical example of the threats faced by members of society.
“We continue to mourn other advocates like the late Jared Ratemo, the late Stephen Mburu, and the late Anthony Ngujiri amongst others,” LSK added.
Moreover, LSK President Erick Theuri stated that the association wanted DCI to revoke the summon issued on February 21, and allow him to personally present Omari in February 27.
“We have asked the DCI to defer the summons issued to Danstan Omari to February 27, when I will personally present him.
“ LSK will not countenance any violations of the Client - Attorney privilege. We shall robustly defend our right to practice as by law provided.,” President of the Law Society of Kenya Erick Theuri stated.
Owing to the complaints listed, the association demanded protection for its members from the government announcing demonstrations at the DCI headquarters on Thursday, February 23.
“We demand that the government, the DCI, the National Police Service, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Judiciary take appropriate and immediate measures to Protect advocates.
“We hereby call on members to turn up at the DCI Headquarters on Thursday, February 23, at 12:30 PM as a sign of solidarity with our besieged colleague,” LSK stated.
On Tuesday, February 21, Danstan Omari was summoned to appear before the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) over an alleged raid at the home of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi on February 8.
The opposition, led by Azimio leader Raila Odinga also condemned the summoning of Omari, describing it as state intimidation.
