The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the killing of senior lawyer Kyalo Mbobu, describing his death as a premeditated assassination that underscores the growing insecurity facing members of the legal profession.
Mbobu, a highly respected Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with more than 30 years of practice, was shot dead on September 9, 2025 evening. According to police reports, an unidentified assailant opened fire on him in a drive-by shooting before fleeing on a motorcycle.
In a strongly worded statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the murder was not only a blow to the legal fraternity but also a test of the country’s commitment to the rule of law.
“Too often, Advocates have been victimised and targeted for the work that they do. This incident and other acts of violence, intimidation and retribution against Advocates of the High Court of Kenya represent a damning test to the administration of justice,” Ms Odhiambo said.
She added that the circumstances surrounding Mbobu’s killing bore the hallmarks of a targeted hit, heightening fears about the safety of lawyers who handle sensitive cases.
Tributes to a Legal Luminary
The LSK hailed Mbobu as a “distinguished member of the Bar” whose service to law and governance left a lasting impact. He was widely regarded as an authority on evidence law, having authored scholarly texts still relied on in practice.
Beyond private practice, he served as a Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, mentoring generations of legal practitioners. His tenure as Chair of the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal also drew praise, with the Society noting his impartiality and commitment to strengthening democratic processes.
“Through his expansive practice and devout service, Mr Mbobu made instrumental contributions to the legal and governance space in Kenya. His legacy will live on through his scholarship and mentorship,” the LSK statement read.
Demand for Justice
The Society urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to move swiftly, saying the murder had shaken public confidence in the country’s security institutions.
“Anything else will be an indictment to the capacity of our security organs to discharge their mandate, and add to the growing frustration and skepticism on the state of security in the country,” Ms Odhiambo said.
The LSK further warned that unchecked violence against lawyers threatened the independence of the Bar, which is critical for the effective delivery of justice.
Nationwide protest
In solidarity with Mbobu and in protest against rising attacks on advocates, the LSK announced it will hold a countrywide Purple Ribbon March on Friday, September 12, 2025.
In Nairobi, lawyers will gather at the Milimani Law Courts before marching along Kenyatta Avenue to Vigilance House, where they plan to present a memorandum to the Inspector General of Police. Similar processions will be held in all eight LSK branches across the country.
Members have been urged to don purple ribbons as a sign of unity and resistance against “senseless violence targeting the legal profession.”
Advocates safety concerns
The killing adds to a string of attacks and threats against Kenyan lawyers in recent years, sparking debate over whether the state is doing enough to protect those who defend constitutional rights. Advocates often handle politically sensitive, high-stakes, or corruption-related cases, exposing them to risks of intimidation and violence.
Legal analysts say Mbobu’s assassination has once again highlighted the urgent need for reforms in witness and victim protection, as well as enhanced security guarantees for advocates who find themselves at the frontline of justice.
For now, the legal profession remains in mourning as tributes pour in for a man remembered as a mentor, scholar, and defender of the rule of law.
