By John Mutiso
Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai has revealed that his decision to pursue a law degree was shaped by landmark cases and a commitment to justice.
Speaking on Thursday, November 20, he noted that the first spark came from observing the Ouko Commission of Inquiry, whose proceedings left a deep impression on him.
“I was inspired by the Ouko Commission of Inquiry. I saw how lawyers were engaging; I remember Ouko Ombaka and Moses Wetang’ula, who were both relatively young lawyers at the time, and they were very good. I also remember Justice Evan Gicheru, who was the chair of that Commission of Inquiry,” he said.
Kaikai recalled how the intensity and emotional weight of the SM Otieno burial dispute captured his attention and deepened his interest in the law.
“I was also inspired by the SM Otieno case that was fought in court between the Umira Kager clan and the widow of the late SM Oteno, that is Wambui Otieno. She wanted to bury him in Matasia, the clan said, ‘No, he has to be buried in Nyalgunga.’ I followed that case in the newspaper and I thought, ‘Hey, that looks really good,'” he added.
Kaikai further stated that his career in journalism also played a major role in motivating him to study law, noting that journalism and law share a common pursuit of fairness and public interest
“Another thing that also inspires me is, I’m a journalist, and you know that fire that burns in us about justice and doing the right thing, public interest. The law gives you the shield, and it also gives you the spear. In addition to the journalistic pen, I think we can defend justice,” he further said.
Kaikai was part of a group of 916 petitioners admitted at the Supreme Court on Thursday in a ceremony presided over by Chief Justice Martha Koome.
The admission saw petitioners take their oaths before the Chief Justice and sign the Roll of Advocates.
Speaking during the ceremony, Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo highlighted the commitment and solidarity expected of those joining the profession.
“You are a generation that refuses to work in silence. As you enter the law practice, remember that justice is not a slogan, it is a long-term commitment. Ours is a profession built on standing up for one another,” she said.
Law Society of East Africa President Ramadhan Abubakar also highlighted the influence and responsibility that come with being admitted to the bar.
“From today, your words carry weight and your actions shape institutions. Your practice can no longer be confined by borders. You can now practice in all East African countries. The lawyer who sees the region shapes the future,” he said.
