In a closely contested battle for the fourth male representative to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) seat, outgoing Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Eric Theuri has conceded defeat to Nairobi-based lawyer Omwanza Ombati.
Theuri has conceded defeat and unreservedly congratulated Ombati for emerging as the winner in the JSC post.
"I would like to congratulate Omwanza Ombati on his election as commissioner-elect. I would also like to thank all my supporters, donors, and friends for your immense support. I have received incredible support from all of you," Theuri states on his X account.
The outgoing LSK president has also congratulated all the other participants who emerged winners for the various positions during yesterday's LSK positions.
The election, which took place on Thursday, February 29, saw Ombati emerge victorious with a narrow margin of 65 votes over Theuri.
The final vote tally by the Independent and Elections Boundaries Commission (IEBC) revealed Ombati secured 3,357 votes, while Theuri trailed closely behind with 3,292 votes. Competing alongside them were Ishmael Nyaribo and Professor Mwabile, who managed to garner 95 and 629 votes respectively.
Ombati's win marks the end of Theuri’s bid to become the fourth LSK male representative to the Judicial Service Commission, after serving as the 50th LSK president from March 2022 to 2024.
Theuri's promise
Throughout his campaign, Theuri emphasized a three-point agenda, focusing on providing effective and responsive representation, safeguarding judicial independence, and enhancing accountability while championing judicial transformation.
The role of the JSC representative holds immense significance, as it involves crucial responsibilities in disciplining and appointing both judges and magistrates, thereby influencing the course of the legal landscape in Kenya.
After being declared the JSC commissioner-elect, Ombati thanked the entire legal fraternity for voting for him, stating that he would ensure he serves them with honour and dignity in terms of the Constitution and all relevant laws.
"I want to sincerely thank the esteemed members of the Law Society Kenya for bestowing upon me the greatest honour and trust of my professional life to serve them at the JSC. I promise to be your voice at the Judicial Service Commission and truly represent you and have your voice heard clearly and loudly," Ombati said.
Simultaneously, the LSK presidential elections unfolded, with Faith Mony Odhiambo securing victory with 3,040 votes. Her closest opponent Peter Wanyama got 2,122 votes while Carolyne Kamende trailed behind with 910 votes.
Odhiambo, who previously served as the LSK Vice President since 2022 and currently practicing as a partner at Ombok & Owuor Advocates LLP, is poised to assume the presidency, succeeding Theuri, whose tenure officially ends on March 25.
Former LSK President Nelson Havi congratulated Odhiambo, urging her to serve with distinction and emphasizing the importance of integrity and ethical conduct in her new role.
He reminded her that the journey of leadership is marked by challenges and requires an unwavering commitment to uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
