By Rosemary Mong’ina
Branch elections for the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) South West branch kicked off Friday morning, drawing significant participation from advocates seeking to shape the society’s leadership and governance.
Voting is underway across key stations in Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Homa Bay and Kilgoris law courts, where members are electing officials to positions including chairperson, secretary-general, treasurer and representatives to the national council.
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At Kisii Law Courts, voter turnout was steady from early morning, with election officials expressing confidence in the credibility and smooth running of the process.
By midday, turnout had surpassed 50 percent, according to branch secretary-general Justice Maenche, who is defending his seat for a second term.
“We are hoping to reach full turnout because many of our members are present,” said Maenche.
The elections come at a critical time for the LSK, as branches across the country play an increasingly influential role in shaping policy positions, safeguarding professional standards and contributing to national legal discourse—particularly on constitutionalism, governance and access to justice.
Locally, the South West branch has been at the forefront of addressing concerns over legal practice standards, including the crackdown on unqualified practitioners, commonly referred to as “quacks.”
Zelmer Bonuke, a contender for the chairperson position, expressed optimism that the elections would usher in new leadership and reforms within the branch.
Incumbent chairperson Winnie Mirieri, who is also defending her seat, was among leaders present at the Kisii polling station, alongside national council representative Davin Biyaki Bonuke.
The two welcomed the high turnout, describing it as a sign of growing engagement among members.
“I have been vocal in fighting quacks and ensuring our practicing standards are maintained,” said Biyaki.
Meanwhile, LSK Deputy President Teresiah Wavinya Nicholas urged members to actively participate in the exercise, emphasizing the importance of strong branch leadership.
“It is always our duty to offer support where needed and amplify what must be done in the branches. I call on all members to turn up and make their voices heard,” she said.
The outcome of the elections is expected to influence not only the direction of the South West branch but also its contribution to national debates within the legal profession, as the LSK continues to assert its role in governance and the rule of law in Kenya.
