Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi has declared his bid to lead the East Africa Law Society (EALS), the regional apex body representing over 28,000 lawyers from East African member states. The elections are scheduled for November 30, 2024, in Uganda.
The EALS, established in 1995, comprises national bar associations from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Zanzibar. Its mission includes advancing constitutionalism, the rule of law, democracy, and human rights in the region, as well as fostering cross-border legal and commercial integration.
Nairobi’s Turn to Lead
Leadership of the EALS presidency rotates among member states, and it is now Nairobi’s turn to produce a president. Previous Kenyan representatives to hold the office include Aggrey Mwamu, Benard Oundo, and Tom Ojienda. Current president Faiz Twaib, a retired Tanzanian High Court judge, will be stepping down.
Havi, who served as the 49th president of LSK, expressed confidence that his leadership experience and vision for the region make him the right candidate for the position.
Track Record and Vision
Speaking from his Parklands office, Havi highlighted the achievements of his LSK tenure as evidence of his readiness for regional leadership. “The work I did as the 49th president of the LSK is self-evident. We must cascade that energy, competence, and courage to the East African region,” he stated.
During his tenure at LSK, Havi established connections with regional bar associations, a network he believes will be instrumental in fulfilling EALS’s objectives if he secures the presidency. “Our communities count on lawyers to champion constitutionalism, democracy, and human rights. The region needs a leader with a strong profile and the courage to deliver,” he emphasized.
Havi added that his leadership would focus on aligning regional legal practices with global standards and addressing pressing issues such as cross-border commerce, civil society engagement, and support for governments in policy development.
Gaining Support from Kenyan Lawyers
Havi plans to rally support from the Kenyan delegation during the EALS annual general meeting. “There will be a breakout session for Kenyan lawyers, and I will convince them to elect me,” he said, underscoring his track record as LSK president and his commitment to elevating EALS to new heights.
He also stressed the importance of sustaining what he termed as the “spirit of the brave new bar,” which he championed during his time at LSK. His focus, he explained, will be on ensuring the society remains a beacon for the rule of law and a driving force for regional integration.
Opportunities for EALS Members
Membership in EALS offers lawyers access to a vast network of regional and international contacts, along with opportunities to engage in discussions on the development of legal practices and policies. The society’s role in supporting cross-border commerce and fostering integration among East African communities is a central part of its mission.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming election presents an opportunity for Kenyan lawyers to have one of their own at the helm of EALS once again. Havi’s bid is rooted in his belief that the region requires bold, competent leadership to navigate current challenges and drive integration forward.
As the November 30 election date approaches, Havi remains optimistic about his chances, banking on the support of Kenyan lawyers to propel him into regional leadership. “This is a call to elevate our shared vision for the legal profession and the region as a whole,” he said.
The outcome of the elections will not only shape the future of EALS but also influence how the legal profession contributes to the broader integration and development of East Africa.
