President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nelson Havi has been suspended from office. This is after being accused of gross misconduct and failing the leadership and integrity test.
The announcement was made in a statement by the LSK Council.
“We hereby suspend Nelson Andayi Havi from the office and duties of the President of the Law Society of Kenya from 8th February 2021 to 27th March 2021 when the General Meeting where his defense will be heard in person or through an advocate of his choice and thereafter a decision made by the general meeting through a vote of all members attending the meeting both physically and virtually,” the council statement reads.
The statement further reveals the council has lost confidence in its President. It says that they acted within the best interest of both the LSK members and the public.
The council also acted with respect to the rule of law and to preserve the reputation of the society.
“Suspending him is a mammoth task but the interests of the members of the society outweighs his individual interests,” reads the statement.
In a rejoinder, Havi has rubbished the move, terming it as being void. His remarks further show he is downplaying the move by the LSK Council.
The 8 suspended Council Members do not have power to suspend President Nelson Havi. That is a preserve of Members in a General Meeting. The ‘suspension’ is a nullity ab initio intended to conceal theft of Society’s money. I continue to serve till end of term on 24.3.2022. ^POLSK
— Nelson Havi (@NelsonHavi) February 8, 2021
The surviving LSK Council Members: Esther Ang’awa, Herine Kabita, Vice-President Carolyne Kamende and President Nelson Havi will be in Machakos High Court tomorrow morning for plea taking in R v Christian Kadima charged with the murder of Elizabeth Koki. We are working. ^POLSK
— Nelson Havi (@NelsonHavi) February 8, 2021
Why Is There A Rift Within LSK
Members have largely been divided between those who are pro-Havi and those who are opposed to his Presidency. Both sides have been trading accusations of corruption and misappropriation of funds. However, until now none have offered any concrete evidence to support their claims.
The recent LSK Special General Meeting was convened to discuss the same. This, however, did not happen as the learned friends almost exchanged blows.
During the meeting, Havi was accused of repressing the voices of over 3000 members of the LSK. The members had joined the meeting online and had sought to cast their votes.
While in the meeting, Havi removed 9 LSK members who had voted against him as President. The decision was however reversed by the High Court.
Perceived Political Influence In LSK
Politics is also seen to be playing a part in the squabbles. A tweet sent by Nelson Havi last year made many perceive that he is a member of the Tangatanga movement. The movement is associated with the Deputy President William Ruto.
Can I say something on behalf of my party, Tanga Tanga Democratic Party (TTDP) ama ninyamazie hii? ^DoS pic.twitter.com/ANK78OEpNp
— Nelson Havi (@NelsonHavi) August 5, 2020
He later denied being a Tangatanga affiliate. However, the damage had already been done and many still believe this assertion could be the reason behind the chaos within the LSK.
Clearly, drama in the Law Society is likely to continue. So it will be interesting to see what both the council and Havi’s next move will be.
Do you think Nelson Havi should be reinstated? Is it time for him to step down as President? Let us know in the comments and keep it C.O.K for more updates.
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