A leadership crisis is brewing at the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) North Rift branch as a group of lawyers pushes for the removal of the entire branch council. The motion to dissolve the council is set to be tabled during a Special General Meeting (SGM) scheduled for August 1, 2025.
The branch council, chaired by Eldoret-based lawyer Henry Kenei, is facing backlash from members led by lawyer Michael Wabomba Masinde, who has formally submitted a dissolution motion. Masinde has written to LSK President Faith Odhiambo, accusing the current leadership of losing the confidence of members and failing in transparency and accountability.
The council includes Secretary Claire Karuga, Treasurer Marion Rotich, and council members Moses Rotich, Margaret Kinyua, Felix Mukabane, Nickson Keter, Geoffrey Lowesikou, Shadrack Munyesu, and in-house representative Geoffrey Owino.
Masinde’s motion seeks the immediate disbandment of the council and the appointment of a caretaker team comprising seven lawyers of “proven integrity and good standing.” This interim team would take over management of the branch, oversee a forensic audit of the council’s financial records, and organize fresh elections within 60 days.
“The caretaker council will ensure an independent forensic audit is conducted and report to members within 45 days,” Masinde stated, adding that the outgoing officials should hand over all records and assets within a week of the council’s dissolution.
The LSK North Rift branch has over 1,000 members spread across Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Nandi, and Turkana counties. Members have reportedly raised persistent concerns over financial mismanagement and the council’s failure to address them adequately.
When contacted, both Kenei and Karuga did not respond to calls or text messages from The Star.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo acknowledged receiving the notice but distanced herself from the internal affairs of the regional branch, saying, “Members in that region are best placed to comment on the matter.”
The August 1 SGM is expected to be a defining moment for the future leadership of the North Rift branch.
