NAIROBI, Kenya — Newly elected Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Charles Kanjama has defended his handling of an alleged abduction case after drawing sharp criticism online, saying his role remains advisory until he formally assumes office on March 27.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Tuesday, Kanjama said that as President-elect, he lacks executive authority to intervene directly and that the current LSK leadership remains in charge.
“LSK operates under the leadership of the President of the Law Society of Kenya. The President does not work alone. They work with the council, the Secretariat, various committees, including the public interest litigation committee, and networks connecting with police and human rights organisations. One person cannot do too much; the institution is what assists,” he said.
The controversy erupted after activist Mwabili Mwagoli alleged that an individual identified as Menelik had been abducted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on February 20 and was last seen at Muthaiga Police Station.
Responding on X, Kanjama advised reporting the matter to the DCI, the National Police Service and engaging media and human rights groups, including Amnesty International Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission.
His remarks sparked backlash, with critics accusing him of offering procedural advice instead of decisive leadership. Some lawyers argued that, having campaigned on a reform agenda, he should have taken a stronger public stance even before assuming office.
Kanjama maintained that due process is critical when handling alleged human rights violations. “The first thing you do is report to the police, whether a local police station or the DCI. This sets a record and triggers the duty to protect and command responsibility,” he said, adding that if danger persists, the matter should be publicised and escalated to oversight bodies.
He later clarified that the entire LSK structure works collectively under the sitting President and council, noting that he will formally take over leadership on March 27. He urged support for the current office holders until then.
Kanjama also praised outgoing LSK President Faith Odhiambo, saying he intends to build on her tenure by strengthening public interest litigation and championing the rule of law.
The episode has reignited debate over the expectations placed on President-elect officials in professional bodies and the balance between institutional procedure and public advocacy in cases alleging state misconduct.
