Faith Odhiambo has been elected as the new President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), becoming the second female president after Raychelle Omamo, who served from 2001 to 2003. She takes over from Eric Theuri, who was vying for the male representative to the Judicial Service Commission seat. This election marks Odhiambo’s rise from Vice President to the leader of this prestigious legal body.
Early Life and Education
Faith Odhiambo’s academic journey in law began with her earning an LLB (Hons) from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. This laid the foundational stone for her legal career. She further honed her legal expertise by obtaining a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, equipping her with the practical skills necessary for legal practice in Kenya.
Recognizing the importance of specialized knowledge in today’s globalized legal environment, Odhiambo pursued and attained an LLM (Hons) in International Commercial Law with European Law from the University of Kent, UK. This international exposure enriched her understanding and grasp of the law, preparing her for the complex challenges of legal practice and academia.
Legal Career and Specializations
Odhiambo’s legal career is distinguished by her specialization in several key areas, including litigation, corporate and commercial law, telecommunications law, and competition law. Her expertise extends to banking law, financial services, mediation, and arbitration, showcasing her versatility and depth of knowledge.
She has made significant contributions to the legal profession through her partnership at Ombok and Owuor LLP Advocates, a Nairobi-based law firm known for its comprehensive legal services.
Leadership and Advocacy
As the Vice President of the Law Society of Kenya and a former Board Secretary of the Federation of Women Lawyers-Kenya (FIDA-Kenya), Odhiambo has demonstrated leadership and a strong commitment to advocacy. Her roles have placed her at the forefront of championing the rights of women and children, emphasizing her dedication to social justice and equality.
Academic Contributions
Odhiambo’s influence extends to the academic realm, where she serves as a lecturer at the School of Law at the University of Nairobi. Her teaching portfolio includes subjects such as Law of Business Associations, Banking Law, Competition Law, and Consumer Protection Law, all critical to understanding Kenya’s legal and economic landscape.
Through her academic role, Odhiambo shapes the minds of future legal professionals, imparting knowledge and ethical standards vital for the development of the legal profession in Kenya.
Research and Advisory Roles
Odhiambo has been involved in significant research and advisory projects, such as studies on competition bottlenecks in mobile financial services and advisory on spectrum management in Kenya. These contributions highlight her expertise and commitment to improving the legal and regulatory environment in Kenya and beyond.
Certifications and Memberships
Her professional qualifications are further augmented by her status as a Certified Public Secretary and her membership in the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators-UK (MCIarb). She is also a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
Ongoing Education and Research Interests
As a PhD student at the University of Nairobi, Odhiambo is focused on research areas that include competition law, consumer protection law, telecommunications law, banking law, financial services, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution. Her research interests also cover crucial societal issues such as women and children’s rights, climate change, human rights, intellectual property rights, and economic law, showcasing her holistic approach to the law and its implications on society.
Election as LSK President
Five candidates vied for the position of LSK President: Peter Wanyama, Carolyne Kamende, Faith Odhiambo, Harriet Mboche, and Kipkoech Bernhard Ngetich. Odhiambo emerged as the frontrunner with an impressive tally of 3,113 votes, closely trailed by Wanyama, who garnered 2,165 votes. Kamende secured 888 votes, followed by Ng’etich with 833 votes and Mboche with 511 votes.
Wanyama, the primary contender against Faith, gracefully accepted defeat, acknowledging Odhiambo’s victory.
Personal and Linguistic Skills
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Odhiambo is multilingual. She knows a little Arabic and Italian, and she can speak enough French to manage in a French-speaking place. Besides, she is fluent in Luo, Kiswahili, and English.
Family Background
Faith Odhiambo’s father is a lecturer at Maseno University. Her background in a family valuing education and knowledge likely contributed to her distinguished career in law.
Conclusion
Faith Odhiambo’s journey from an academic scholar to the President of the Law Society of Kenya is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and leadership in the legal field. Her diverse skills and commitment to social justice make her a pivotal figure in shaping Kenya’s legal landscape.