Lawyers petition state over killing of advocate Kyalo Mbobu
Odhiambo said a formal petition had been presented to authorities, seeking to compel the state to fulfill its constitutional mandate to protect life and guarantee the safety of members of the legal profession.
The legal fraternity has petitioned the government to take urgent action following the killing of advocate Matthew Kyalo Mbobu, warning that continued attacks on lawyers threaten constitutional rights and access to justice.
Speaking outside Vigilant House on Thursday, during the Purple Ribbon March, LSK President Faith Odhiambo condemned the killing and demanded accountability from state agencies.
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"Stop killing Kenyans! Justice for all! Accountability to all! We want life!" she declared while addressing the press.
Odhiambo said a formal petition had been presented to authorities, seeking to compel the state to fulfill its constitutional mandate to protect life and guarantee the safety of members of the legal profession.
"The Constitution of Kenya 2010 guarantees the right to life under Article 26, dignity under Article 28, and freedom from violence under Article 29," she noted. "It also provides for access to justice under Article 48 and the right to a fair hearing under Article 50. The killing of an advocate not only violates these rights but also denies clients their ability to access justice."
Nairobi lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu who was shot dead in a drive-by attack near Galleria Mall in Karen South, Nairobi on September 9, 2025. (Photo: Courtesy)
She further reminded the Inspector General of Police of his obligations under the National Police Service Act to safeguard all citizens, including lawyers, and urged the Law Society of Kenya to step up efforts to protect its members as required under the Law Society Act.
Citing international instruments ratified by Kenya, such as the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, Odhiambo emphasised that the state is duty-bound to guarantee the safety and independence of lawyers.
The petition calls for a speedy, impartial, and transparent investigation into the killing of Mbobu, with all perpetrators and accomplices brought to justice.
They also want regular public updates on the progress of investigations to reassure both the legal fraternity and the public.
"Urgent protective measures for advocates across the country, particularly those handling sensitive cases."
Odhiambo warned that failure by the state to act decisively would undermine the rule of law and erode public confidence in Kenya's justice system.
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