The council of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), led by its President Faith Odhiambo, convened a pivotal meeting with the Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS) to address the ongoing harassment and intimidation of advocates while performing their professional duties.

The high-level meeting held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, aimed at fostering collaboration between legal practitioners and law enforcement agencies, took place amid growing concerns over infringements on advocates’ rights.

The meeting was attended by Inspector General Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, Gilbert Masengeli, and the Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohamed Amin.

During the discussions, Odhiambo emphasised the importance of respecting the role of advocates within the justice system.

“Advocates must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of harassment or intimidation. Legal representation is a cornerstone of justice, and interference with this right undermines the rule of law.”

Odhiambo said that the key focus was the need to ensure that police officers do not interfere with advocates in the execution of their duties. The parties agreed on the necessity of enforcing disciplinary actions against any officers who violate the rights of legal practitioners.

“Disciplinary measures are essential to uphold professional standards within the police service and protect advocates who often operate under challenging circumstances,” Odhiambo explained.

NPS training curriculum

The LSK President said another significant area discussed was the revision of the National Police Service training curriculum. Both parties agreed on the importance of integrating legal and ethical standards into police training to promote understanding and respect for advocates’ roles.

“Incorporating legal education and ethics into police training will build a culture of respect for the legal profession and enhance cooperation between officers and advocates,” Odhiambo noted.

The meeting also identified several collaborative initiatives to strengthen the relationship between the LSK and the NPS. These include the implementation of legal awareness programmes aimed at educating both the police and the public on legal rights and responsibilities.

“Promoting legal literacy is key to preventing violations of rights and fostering a more informed community-police relationship,” the LSK President remarked.

In addition, both bodies agreed to promote rights-based community policing strategies to ensure that law enforcement upholds human rights while maintaining public order.

To institutionalise the cooperation, the meeting resolved to establish a permanent framework for regular consultations between the LSK and the National Police Service.

They said the platform will provide an avenue for ongoing dialogue on issues affecting advocates and law enforcement, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and accountability.

As part of the resolutions, the National Police Service appointed a liaison officer to work directly with the LSK Police Liaison Committee. This role is intended to streamline communication and facilitate prompt resolution of matters involving advocates and police officers.

“The appointment of a liaison officer demonstrates a commitment from the National Police Service to work hand in hand with advocates in ensuring justice is delivered without obstruction.”

Officials said the meeting marks a critical step towards safeguarding the rights of advocates in Kenya and fostering a collaborative environment that strengthens the country’s justice system promising to continue working together to uphold the rule of law and promote a culture of respect and professionalism.

The Council of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), led by its President @FaithOdhiambo8, held a meeting with the Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS) to address the continued harassment and intimidation of advocates in the line of duty by police officers and other… pic.twitter.com/9pbfNnEvH7

— Law Society of Kenya (@LawSocietyofKe) June 4, 2025