New LSK President Charles Kanjama takes over with major property projects pending

Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama has emerged victorious in the 2026 Law Society of Kenya presidential elections, securing a decisive mandate to lead the premier bar association for the 2026-2028 term. Kanjama, the Managing Partner at Muma and Kanjama Advocates, garnered 3,728 votes, defeating his closest rival Peter Wanyama, who received 2,616 votes. Mwaura Kabata, the outgoing Vice President, finished third with 2,086 votes. The election results, tallied on February 19, 2026, signal a transition from the leadership of outgoing President Faith Odhiambo to a council expected to prioritize professional welfare and institutional development.

The incoming president enters office at a critical juncture for the society’s capital intensive projects. Central to Kanjama’s infrastructure agenda is the completion of the Wakili Towers, a landmark commercial development designed to serve as the headquarters and professional hub for the legal fraternity in Nairobi. The project, which recently saw a ground-breaking ceremony attended by high-ranking government officials, represents a significant investment in the society's physical assets. Kanjama has committed to ensuring the transparent completion of this project, which has long been a focal point of discussion regarding the society's financial management and property optimization strategies.

Beyond the Wakili Towers, the new leadership is expected to oversee the development of other LSK-owned properties, including plots on Gitanga Road and in South C. These sites have been under review by the LSK Development and Investment Committee for potential commercial optimization. As a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and an advocate with extensive experience in commercial and tax law, Kanjama is positioned to navigate the complex regulatory and contractual requirements inherent in these large-scale urban developments. His background includes prior consultancy work for the Railway City Development Project, a major national infrastructure initiative, which provides him with a practical understanding of large-scale project governance.

In his post-election address, Kanjama emphasized that his RIPE agenda, standing for Rule of law, Integrity, Practice and welfare, and Engagement, would guide his two-year tenure. Part of this commitment involves the establishment of a dedicated training institute and the strengthening of the society's internal administrative structures. The election, which was supervised by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), saw participation from over 20,000 practicing advocates across the country. The high turnout reflects the importance members place on the society’s role in not only defending constitutionalism but also managing the professional interests and assets of its membership.

Construction stakeholders and legal professionals will be watching closely as the new council takes up its duties. The LSK remains a key statutory body that frequently engages with state agencies on legislative reforms affecting the real estate and construction sectors. Under Kanjama’s leadership, the society is expected to continue its role in public interest litigation, particularly concerning urban land value tax reforms and the enforcement of building codes. The transition arrangements are scheduled to commence immediately, with the formal handover of power expected to follow the conclusion of the biennial electoral process.