The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has strongly encouraged residents of Kiambu County to take advantage of the special Legal Awareness Week. This initiative provides a valuable chance for them to receive free, pro-bono legal advice at local courts, specifically targeting those who lack the necessary legal knowledge to navigate the judicial process.
The launch event took place at the Kiambu Law Courts. Key speakers, including the Kiambu High Court Presiding Judge Lady Justice Abigail Mshila and the Chief Magistrate, urged the public to share any difficulties they encounter when presenting cases in court.
Justice Mshila highlighted that this year’s awareness week theme directly supports the Judiciary’s ongoing reform efforts to ensure the justice system is followed by both the accused and the prosecution. The Chief Magistrate supported this view, drawing attention to the serious issue of widespread fake lawyers allegedly deceiving residents, causing significant hardship. He emphasized the critical need to use legitimate channels for seeking legal justice.
Eric Kivuva, Chairman of the LSK Nairobi region, delivered a strong condemnation of corruption within the courts, particularly criticizing a segment of court clerks. He declared that the LSK’s presence is “not to whisper, not to plead, but to demand what is rightfully through justice that is fair, transparent and accountable.” Kivuva voiced his frustration with the “corruption that festers in every hall” and specifically accused court clerks of manipulating files and causing delays in justice, labelling these actions as sabotage.
Counsel Beth Fundi, Chairlady of the Kiambu LSK Chapter, invited residents to utilize the week to learn how to file a case and understand the entire judicial procedure. Fundi noted that land issues related to succession and family disputes represent major challenges in Kiambu. She pointed out that the Court Annexed Mediation process has become crucial for resolving these conflicts, leading to a significant reduction in wasted court time. The LSK chapter has also been actively addressing fake lawyers impersonating genuine counsel and defrauding people, especially in Kiambu and Murang’a County.
Munene Warutere, the Vice-Chair, confirmed that the LSK would provide free advice throughout the week to guarantee clients receive the necessary guidance. Additionally, Cate Ndichu of SBM Bank advised residents to work closely with advocates when securing bank loans for land purchases. She stressed the importance of ensuring the entire process, including searches and titling, runs smoothly to help clients successfully secure their loans.
