The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised alarm over a growing wave of sexual harassment allegations within the legal profession, warning that the abuse of power is increasingly targeting junior advocates, pupils, and interns.
In a press statement on February 9, 2026, LSK said it had noted numerous complaints circulating on social media, many implicating senior colleagues in law firms, NGOs, and other organisations for allegedly preying on vulnerable young professionals.
The Society strongly condemned the conduct, stating it violates professional ethics and may constitute criminal wrongdoing.
"We voice our unequivocal condemnation of such conduct. It offends the ethical standards of the legal profession and amounts to both professional misconduct and criminal conduct by proven perpetrators," LSK President Faith Odhiambo said.
LSK reminded members that it adopted a Sexual Harassment and Anti-Bullying Policy (SHABP) in 2019 to ensure safe and respectful working spaces. The policy applies to all staff categories, including pupils, interns, temporary employees, and students attached to law firms or the Society itself.
The framework covers misconduct not only within offices but also in client meetings, business travel, Society events, and electronic communication.
Complaints can be lodged with either the Advocates Complaints Commission (ACC) or the Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal (DT). To maintain integrity, LSK clarified that it does not interfere with tribunal decisions.
Odhiambo stressed: "The council does not instruct or give directives to the DT on its process, decisions, or operations."
Currently chaired by Mr. Taib Ali Taib, SC, the tribunal is fully constituted to handle complaints. However, a recent decision revealed gaps in the legal framework. A ruling on November 27, 2025, involving a member named in harassment claims by 22 colleagues, found the tribunal lacked jurisdiction, citing sexual harassment as a criminal matter better handled through prosecution.
LSK described the ruling as regrettable but emphasized its significance in highlighting the need for urgent legal reforms. Odhiambo said: "This decision exposes a gap in the legal framework for handling sexual harassment cases and necessitates law reform efforts."
The Society plans to push for amendments to Section 60 of the Advocates Act to clearly define disgraceful conduct and strengthen the tribunal’s authority.
Beyond disciplinary measures, LSK underscored that sexual harassment remains a criminal offence under the Sexual Offences Act, and perpetrators must face legal consequences.
"It is in the interests of justice, and to deter recurrence, that every person identified as a perpetrator be arrested, prosecuted, and dealt the just punishment recognised in law," Odhiambo added.
LSK urged victims to pursue both internal disciplinary channels and criminal reporting through police. The Gender Committee has proposed that all law firms adopt a model harassment policy as part of practising certificate renewal.
To provide holistic care, the Society announced partnerships with the Advocates Benevolent Association to offer free counselling services through registered therapists. It will also collaborate with FIDA-Kenya and the Witness Protection Agency to support investigations and safeguard vulnerable victims.
The Society reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity and safety of all members, warning that harassment undermines professional integrity and tarnishes the reputation of the legal sector.
"We must all actively participate in protecting our practice environment from criminal elements who threaten the safety of colleagues and bring indignity and disrepute to our profession," Odhiambo said.
LSK called for collective responsibility, stronger enforcement, and sustainable reforms to ensure safe working environments across Kenya’s legal profession.
Tags: Kenya, Law Society of Kenya, Sexual Harassment, Legal Profession, Advocates, Ethics, Law Reform, Gender, Workplace Safety
