President William Ruto has officially confirmed the conferment of the prestigious Senior Counsel rank to 54 distinguished advocates, marking one of the most extensive recognitions of legal excellence in recent years. The announcement, published in a Gazette Notice dated December 10, 2025, elevates prominent figures including National Assembly Speaker Moses Masika Wetang’ula and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Mohammed Haji.
Acting under Section 17(1) of the Advocates Act, President Ruto acknowledged the recipients as individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, and mastery of the law, reflecting their contributions to Kenya’s legal advancement.
The newly conferred Senior Counsel represent a diverse spectrum of legal practice—seasoned litigators, reform advocates, legal scholars, and public service professionals.
Among the other notable names are:
Dr. Hosea Kimutai Kili
Kennedy Ogeto
Dr. Praxedes Chepkoech Tororey
James Mburu Kamau
William Ikutha Maema
Patrick Lutta Odongo
Dr. Ruth Anyango Aura
Dr. Mercy Mwarah Deche
Also honoured are Hassan Nunow Lakicha, Koki Muli Grignon, James Aggrey Mwamu, Adil Arshed Khawaja, Ahmed Issack Hassan, and Paul Lilan, all recognized for shaping policy, strengthening institutions, or advancing jurisprudence.
The list further includes eminent legal scholars such as Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, Prof. Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba, environmental law expert Prof. Kariuki Muigua, maritime specialist Nancy Wakarima Karigithu, and former Law Society of Kenya leaders including Nelson Andayi Havi and Eric Theuri Njeru.
The conferment of Senior Counsel—Kenya’s equivalent of receiving “silk”—follows a strict and highly competitive process.
Applicants must:
- Hold a valid practicing certificate
Demonstrate exemplary professional conduct and integrity
Show mastery of law through litigation, scholarship, or reform
Contribute significantly to legal education and mentorship
Serve within the Law Society of Kenya or regional/international bar associations
Maintain an unblemished record with the Disciplinary Committee
A dedicated committee vets applications over six months. Upon completion, the Chief Justice forwards recommended names to the President for final approval.
In his investiture order, President Ruto emphasized that the honours recognize not only professional distinction but also sustained service to the nation:
“NOW HENCEFORTH, may it be known by all persons, authorities, and institutions that the aforementioned Advocates shall have all the precedence and privileges of the rank and dignity of Senior Counsel.”
He signed the notice under the Public Seal of the Republic, formally inducting the 54 advocates into Kenya’s highest legal rank.
The 2025 conferment marks a significant chapter for Kenya’s legal fraternity. By elevating a wide range of legal experts—from courtroom strategists and academia leaders to public servants and constitutional reformers—the President affirmed the central role of legal excellence in national development.
For the newly decorated Senior Counsel, the honour cements decades of work in shaping Kenya’s legal fabric and sets a higher bar for mentorship, professionalism, and service.
Photo used to illustrate judicial wig
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