By Andrew Kariuki
Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama has officially assumed office as President of the Law Society of Kenya, succeeding Faith Odhiambo following a formal handover during the Society’s 2026 Annual General Meeting held in Machakos.
The ceremony marked the end of Odhiambo’s tenure as the 51st President, with Kanjama and the incoming 2026–2028 Council sworn in before she formally relinquished the instruments of power, making him the 52nd President of the Society.
In an appreciation message to members ahead of the handover, Odhiambo described her time in office as “my life’s greatest honour,” reflecting on a two-year term she said was defined by commitment to reform and defence of the rule of law.
She recalled how, upon seeking the mandate in 2024, members overwhelmingly backed her PSP Agenda, anchored on three key pillars: restoring the dignity of the legal profession, positioning the Society as a firm voice for the rule of law, and ensuring stability within the organisation.
“Two rapid years later, I can report with confidence that I have been faithful to these guiding beacons,” she said.
Odhiambo expressed deep gratitude to members, noting that their support extended beyond the ballot to tangible contributions that strengthened the Society’s work under Section 4 of the LSK Act.
She highlighted what she termed as three defining privileges of her presidency, including strong and outspoken support from members during a period she described as turbulent for Kenya’s rule of law.
“The defiant courage required to do this would not be possible without the safety of having a 20,000-strong membership, firmly behind the work we do and ready to defend us against all adversity that came our way,” she noted.
She also praised members for their sacrifice and unity, saying their willingness to set aside personal interests enabled the Society to overcome numerous challenges and achieve its goals.
Odhiambo further commended the legal fraternity for offering wise counsel throughout her tenure, describing it as a source of innovation, strategy, and resilience that guided the Society through difficult moments.
Reflecting on her legacy, she said the Law Society now stands more united, with a clear path towards growth and shared ambition. She urged members to preserve that unity and support the incoming leadership.
“It has been my life’s greatest honour to serve you… I thank you all for what we have achieved, the lessons we have learnt, the time we have shared, and most importantly, the relationships we have built,” she said.
Kanjama takes over leadership after securing 3,728 votes in the February 2026 elections, in a closely contested race that drew significant attention within the legal fraternity.
His tenure is expected to build on the gains made by his predecessor while steering the Society through the next phase of its mandate.
