A section of Kenyan lawyers has boycotted court proceedings across the country as concerns grow over accountability within Kenya’s Judiciary. The move follows a directive by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the professional body representing advocates in Kenya, urging its members to stop attending court sessions as they push for action on issues affecting the justice system.

Speaking to journalists, LSK President Charles Kanjama encouraged advocates to follow the directive, which is being implemented across the country. He also said a meeting with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), the body responsible for overseeing Kenya’s Judiciary, has been scheduled for July 31, 2026, to discuss the concerns raised by lawyers.

The boycott comes amid claims by the LSK that some judicial officers have not been held accountable for alleged misconduct. The legal body has raised concerns about accountability processes, corruption allegations, and delays in delivering justice. The boycott has affected some court proceedings, with some cases being postponed. However, the Judiciary has said that court operations continue normally across Kenya.

Former LSK President Faith Odhiambo questioned whether public confidence in the justice system can be maintained if concerns involving some judicial officers are not properly addressed. She also raised concerns over cases where court decisions have prevented the Judicial Service Commission from handling some matters involving alleged misconduct by judicial officers.

Former LSK President Erick Theuri encouraged Kenyans to support the boycott, saying it could help push for reforms within the country’s justice system. Responding to the concerns, the Judiciary said that mechanisms are already in place to promote accountability and address challenges such as delays in handling court cases.

The boycott comes against the backdrop of recent corruption allegations involving some judicial officers. In one recent case, a magistrate was arrested over allegations of requesting a bribe to influence the outcome of a case involving a businessman. According to preliminary investigations by Kenya’s Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), an intermediary allegedly acting on behalf of the magistrate was sent to collect KSh170,000 from the complainant in exchange for a favourable ruling.

Responding to the allegations, Kenya’s Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Judiciary does not tolerate corruption or unethical conduct among its officers.

“The allegations are serious and go against the Judicial Code of Conduct and Ethics,” she said.

As discussions continue between lawyers and Kenya’s Judiciary, the court boycott has renewed debate about judicial accountability, reforms, and the importance of maintaining public trust in the country’s justice system.