The corridors of justice are buzzing, not with case files, but with campaign promises. The race for the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) presidency has turned into a referendum on the future of the "young bar"—the thousands of junior advocates facing an existential crisis of unemployment and exploitation.

As the election date nears, the three frontrunners—Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama, Peter Wanyama, and Mwaura Kabata—are locked in a fierce contest to win over this critical demographic. The young lawyers, who form the majority of the LSK’s 20,000-plus membership, are angry. They face rising operational costs, delayed payments, and a market that feels increasingly closed off to newcomers. The candidate who captures their frustration will capture the presidency.

Three Visions, One Goal

Charles Kanjama is pitching a vision of a "well-funded, ethical, and technologically forward-thinking" society. His manifesto treats the LSK as both a professional body and a trade union. "I will deliver Wakili Towers efficiently," he promises, pledging transparency in a project that has long been a source of controversy. Kanjama wants to act as a bridge, improving terms of service for lawyers in the public sector while creating a structured mentorship program for those in private practice.

Peter Wanyama, on the other hand, is zeroing in on the human cost of the profession. His campaign highlights the often-ignored mental health crisis among young advocates. "The challenges of unemployment and the mental toll they carry are real," Wanyama argues. He is proposing direct financial support for LSK branches and a mentorship structure that goes beyond mere lip service, ensuring young lawyers have the psychological and professional support to survive.

• The Infrastructure Play: Mwaura Kabata is betting on tangible assets. His manifesto centers on ensuring Wakili Towers becomes a lasting asset that generates revenue, reducing the reliance on member subscriptions. He also advocates for empowering the regional branches, moving resources away from Nairobi and into the grassroots.

The Verdict Awaits

The common thread is clear: the status quo is no longer tenable. The days of the LSK being an exclusive club for senior counsel are fading. The young bar is demanding a seat at the table, better pay, and protection from sexual harassment and workplace bullying.

"This is my promise to you," Kanjama told a gathering of lawyers, a phrase echoed in spirit by his rivals. But promises in campaign season are cheap. The incoming president will face the herculean task of turning these manifestos into meals on the table for struggling advocates. The ballots will be cast soon, but the real work will begin the morning after.