Supreme Court Judge Justice Issaac Lenaola has underscored the need for ethical practices in the legal profession, citing recent incidents involving a former judge arrested for allegedly soliciting a bribe and complaints of advocates misappropriating clients’ funds.
Speaking during the launch of Zetech University’s Law School and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) programme at the Mang’u campus along Thika Road, Justice Lenaola stressed the importance of integrity in the judiciary and legal sector.
“We must have lawyers who are ethical. A former judge was recently arrested over bribery allegations and we must continue this conversation by calling out unethical practices in the legal sector,” Justice Lenaola said.
He also highlighted the need for law schools to adapt to emerging technologies and to incorporate practical expertise by engaging former judges and experienced advocates as teaching staff.
“Law schools should also strive to involve former judges and advocates in teaching so that students acquire first-hand skills aligned with their coursework,” he added.
Justice Lenaola further warned of emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence, particularly deepfakes and disinformation, ahead of general elections.
“We must ask ourselves what happens in an election where a candidate uses deepfakes to disenfranchise a section of the population,” he said.
Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof Alice Njuguna,
said the law school opens a new career pathway for aspiring lawyers while deepening the growth of the legal profession.
“We remain committed to upholding the highest standards in legal education and training to ensure our students are competent. We look forward to working with the Kenya School of Law to prepare our graduates for successful transitions into the legal profession,” she said.
Prof Jack Mwimali, CEO of the Council of Legal Education, noted that the accreditation of Zetech University’s LL.B programme reflects the institution’s commitment to meeting required standards in legal training.
