The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has begun the process of electing new leadership as it prepares for its 2026 polls, officially declaring vacancies in several top positions — including that of the President currently held by Faith Odhiambo.
In a notice issued to members, the society confirmed that the elections will take place in February 2026, in accordance with the Law Society of Kenya Act (2014) and the General Regulations (2020).
Among the posts declared vacant are those of President, Vice President, and three representatives of the general membership, one of whom must have practiced law for at least 25 years.
Odhiambo, who took office in March 2024, will complete her two-year term in March 2026. Her deputy, Mwaura Kabata, is widely expected to contest the presidency once nominations open later this year.
The LSK Council also consists of three Nairobi representatives, four upcountry representatives, and one from the Coast region — all of whom were elected in 2024 and will serve until the council’s current term ends.
According to the society’s regulations, the secretary must issue an official vacancy notice at least three months before elections to give members adequate time to submit 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,” read part of the communication.
The upcoming polls are expected to be highly competitive, with attention turning to who will succeed Odhiambo — especially among her current leadership team.
Faith Odhiambo’s Eventful Tenure
Odhiambo’s presidency has been marked by both significant achievements and controversy. She has been praised for steering the society through a period of intense public activism, especially during the 2024 Gen Z protests, when the LSK stood firmly in defense of victims of police brutality.
However, her later decision to join President William Ruto’s task force on victim compensation sparked criticism from within the legal community, with some accusing her of undermining the society’s independence.
One of her critics, Advocate Levi Munyeri, publicly called for her resignation in September 2025, arguing that her role on the state-appointed panel created a conflict of interest. He even threatened to file a formal petition seeking her removal from office.
Odhiambo defended her decision, insisting that her participation was in the public interest and aligned with the LSK’s mandate to champion justice and human rights. She eventually resigned from the panel, maintaining that her goal had always been to advance victims’ welfare.
As the election clock ticks, all eyes are now on the 2026 LSK race, which is expected to shape the next phase of leadership for Kenya’s premier legal body.