Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Eric Theuri has refuted reports that Brian Mwenda, the alleged fake lawyer, won 26 cases before being unmasked.
In a statement on Friday, Theuri termed the report misleading, adding that there was no factual basis to support the claims.
Additionally, the LSK President maintained that efforts to apprehend him were ongoing.
“Allegations that the masquerader Brian Mwenda won 26 cases is false and misleading,” the LSK President noted.
“There is no factual basis to support the misleading claims. Efforts to apprehend him are in high gear and we are optimistic that he will be brought to book.”
The statement came on the back of multiple reports claiming that Mwenda was a brilliant lawyer and even won most of his cases in court.
LSK explains circumstances that led to the discovery
In an earlier statement, LSK confirmed that Mwenda had infiltrated its system using the identity of another duly registered lawyer by the name of Brian Mwenda Ntwiga.
Further, the Society noted that the real Mwenda did not apply for a practicing license immediately after his admission to the bar as he was still working in the Attorney General’s chamber.
It was until September 2023, the statement added, when the said advocate moved to seek a license.
Also Read: 5 Questions Raised After LSK Unmasked Fake Advocate Brian Mwenda
However, he was unable to access the LSK portal, a situation that led to the discovery of Brian Mwenda’s tricks.
“He promptly alerted the ICT personnel at the Secretariat vide an email who upon inquiry noted that the details in the system more particularly his email address did not belong to him,” LSK explained.
It was at this point, the statement reads, when LSK moved to investigate Mwenda’s case.
Kenyans ready to stand with Brian Mwenda
Reports about Mwenda’s ventures went viral with Kenyans expressing mixed reactions.
Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of Central Trade Union Organization (COTU) affirmed the union’s support for Mwenda for what he called brilliance and confidence.
Also Read: Atwoli Declares Support for Brian Mwenda
In a statement, Atwoli declared his intention to stand in solidarity with Mwenda arguing that Kenyan professions should recognize skills and competencies acquired through traditional learning pathways.
“If, indeed, it is true that Brian has been practicing law and successfully representing clients in legal matters, we strongly advocate for a fair and transparent examination to test his knowledge, skills, and competencies in the field of law,” Atwoli stated.
In addition, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko vowed to help Mwenda pursue a legal course and fulfil his wish of practicing law. In a video, Sonko promised to bail Mwenda out in case security agencies arrested him.
However, LSK maintained its position underscoring its resolve to protect the profession from masqueraders.
As of Friday evening, the LSK was appealing to Mwenda to present himself at any police station.