Noordin Haji, Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), and Moses Wetangula, Speaker of the National Assembly, are among the advocates who have applied for admission to the Senior Counsel Bar.
In the list published by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the two were part of 105 applicants seeking entry into the prestigious group.
While publishing the list, LSK invited members to provide comments and feedback on the applicants on or before Thursday, October 16, 2025.
Other well-known individuals in the list included former Law Society of Kenya Presidents Eric Theuri, Nelson Havi, and Isaac Okero.
PLO Lumumba, Ombudsman Charles Dulo, Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chairman Isaack Hassan, and popular lawyer Elisha Ongoya also made the list.
Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana, Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier, Kenya School of Government (KSG) Board Chairman Charles Nyachae, Judicial Service Commission (JSC) member Omwanza Ombati, Koki Muli, Chacha Odera, and Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait were also applicants.
Also Read: Senior Counsel Conferment 2025: How Eligible Lawyers Can Apply
The publication of the list followed a notice issued by LSK on Tuesday, September 2, inviting applications from eligible candidates. Applicants were given 30 days, and had till Friday, October 3, to make their submissions.
Becoming Senior Counsel
Conferral of Senior Counsel status comes with strict eligibility, reflecting the high standards expected of Senior Counsels. First, an advocate typically needs a minimum of fifteen years in active legal practice, showcasing a long-standing commitment to the profession.
Aside from the years accumulated, candidates also need to demonstrate outstanding professional competence in their legal work. This means not just being good at their job, but excelling in a way that sets them apart from their peers.
High moral character and integrity are also non-negotiable requirements. The title demands a reputation beyond reproach, ensuring that those who carry it are seen as trustworthy pillars of justice.
A candidate's contribution to the legal profession and public interest is also weighed. This could involve pro bono work, mentorship, legal scholarship, or advocating for important public causes.
Also Read: Kenya's Top Lawyers: Unpacking the Senior Counsel Title Amidst Courtroom Showdowns
To be considered for the title, an advocate must also have a clean record, meaning no pending disciplinary cases or any history of professional misconduct.
After receiving the applications, a special selection process ensues, with a body known as the Committee on Senior Counsel tasked with this mandate. This ten-member committee is tasked with the responsibility of evaluating and recommending advocates for the conferment of the Senior Counsel rank.
It includes a judge from the Supreme Court, another from the Court of Appeal, and a High Court judge, all nominated by their respective judicial bodies.
Also in the panel are the Attorney-General and the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), representing the government and the broader legal fraternity. There are also three Senior Counsels nominated by their peers, and two advocates with at least ten years of experience, elected by the LSK.
After the evaluation process, the Committee forwards the final list of names through the Chief Justice to the President for conferment.
The distinguished lawyers enjoy privileges, including the right to sit in front of judges in a court of law. They also get to wear sleeved waistcoats similar to those worn by judges in the Court of Appeal.
