The Law Society of Kenya has condemned what it describes as a surge in sexual harassment allegations within the legal profession, saying the conduct amounts to both professional misconduct and criminal offenses.
In a statement signed by president Faith Odhimabo, dated February 9, 2026, LSK said recent complaints shared across social media point to abuse of power by senior lawyers against junior colleagues, including associates, interns, and pupils in law firms and other institutions.
“These complaints indicate a worrying trend of abuse of power by senior colleagues against junior, vulnerable members of the profession.” Read the part of the statement
The Society said sexual harassment violates the ethical standards of the profession and must be addressed through both internal disciplinary processes and the criminal justice system.
“From the outset, we voice our unequivocal condemnation of such conduct and assert that the same offends the ethical standards of the legal profession and amounts to both professional misconduct and criminal conduct on the part of proven perpetrators.”
LSK pointed to its Sexual Harassment and Anti-Bullying Policy adopted in 2019, saying it provides a framework for prevention, reporting, and redress. The policy applies to all categories of staff, including part-time, temporary, and contract staff, as well as pupils and students attached to law firms.
Complaints can be filed with the Advocates Complaints Commission or the Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal.
To protect the independence of the process, LSK said its council does not direct the Tribunal on how to handle cases.
“The council affirms to members that it does not instruct or give directives to the DT on its process, decisions, or operations.” The statement read
The Society revealed that the Disciplinary Tribunal recently delivered a decision on a complaint against a lawyer accused of harassing 22 colleagues. According to LSK, only one complainant formally joined the case. The Tribunal found it lacked jurisdiction because sexual harassment is a criminal offense that should be prosecuted through criminal courts.
While describing the outcome as regrettable, LSK said the decision exposes gaps in the law and called for reforms to strengthen enforcement, including changes to the Advocates Act to clearly define misconduct related to harassment.
“Sexual harassment transcends a mere practice issue, as it is a criminal offense contrary to the Sexual Offences Act.”
LSK urged victims to pursue cases through internal disciplinary channels and also report to the police so perpetrators can face criminal liability.
The Society said it has stepped up awareness campaigns through its Gender Committee, including webinars, surveys, and branch engagements. It has also recommended that law firms adopt the anti-harassment policy model during practicing certificate renewals.
To support victims, LSK announced it will work with the Advocates Benevolent Association to offer free counselling through registered therapists. It will also collaborate with FIDA-Kenya to handle investigations and seek support from the Witness Protection Agency for vulnerable victims.