Law Society of Kenya Boycotts Courts Over Judicial Corruption

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) launched a nationwide court boycott on July 22, 2026, to protest administrative failures and a lack of accountability within the judiciary. Led by President Charles Kanjama, advocates refrained from participating in hearings, including those at the Supreme Court, while continuing to handle urgent matters and interim orders.

The LSK specifically targeted judicial officers, including Chief Justice Martha Koome and Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, who allegedly obtained immunity orders to block misconduct investigations by the Judicial Service Commission and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. The professional body also criticized the Office of the Chief Justice for delaying the publication of judge performance data.

The Government of Kenya Judiciary and the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA) rejected the move, declaring that all courts would remain open. KMJA President Peter Mulwa argued that the boycott would primarily harm litigants and could improperly influence ongoing cases. Meanwhile, lawyer Peter Wanyama suggested that accountability must be bidirectional, urging the LSK to also crack down on rogue advocates who bribe judges.

Following reports that some judicial officers penalized boycotting lawyers through case dismissals and adjournment fees, the parties have agreed to a consultative meeting. The LSK, the Senior Counsel Bar, and the Judicial Service Commission are scheduled to meet on July 31, 2026.