The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has strongly condemned the killing of Advocate Tom Ouya Imbukwa, describing his death as a brutal and unacceptable attack on both an individual and the legal profession.
In a firm statement, LSK President Charles Kanjama said the society had received the news with “profound shock and grief,” confirming that the advocate was subjected to assault, torture, and ultimately murdered by unknown persons.
“The Law Society of Kenya has learned with profound shock and grief of the tragic death of our colleague, Advocate Tom Ouya Imbukwa, following brutal assault and torture,” Kanjama said.
He extended condolences to the bereaved family and the wider legal fraternity, noting that the loss had left a deep void within the profession.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Tom’s family, friends and all members of the legal fraternity who mourn this devastating loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.
According to the LSK leadership, the circumstances surrounding Imbukwa’s death point to a disturbing pattern of violence that demands urgent attention from security agencies.
The society confirmed that the advocate was “assaulted, tortured, and murdered by unknown persons,” calling for immediate accountability.
Kanjama stressed that the incident could not be treated as an isolated criminal act, warning that it raised serious questions about the safety of legal practitioners in the country.
“The circumstances surrounding Tom’s death demand our unequivocal condemnation and immediate action,” he stated.
LSK has now called on members of the public with any information regarding the incident to assist ongoing investigations by reporting to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) or directly to the Law Society. The body assured that whistleblowers would be protected.
“We appeal to any member of the public with information regarding this incident to share it urgently with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) or directly with the Law Society of Kenya. Your anonymity and safety will be protected,” Kanjama said.
The society has also pressed the National Police Service and the DCI to move with speed and ensure investigations are both credible and conclusive.
Kanjama further warned that if any state actors are implicated, they must face the law without protection or interference.
“We call upon the National Police Service and the DCI to conduct swift, effective, and credible investigations. If state actors were involved in this torture and murder, there must be no sanctuary for them,” he said.
LSK further pledged unwavering support to the family of the deceased advocate, including legal assistance throughout the investigation and any resulting court processes.
“To Tom’s family, the Law Society of Kenya stands with you during this unimaginably difficult time. We will provide all necessary legal support throughout the investigation and any subsequent proceedings,” Kanjama stated.
The society indicated that it will announce further action after receiving more information on the circumstances of the killing, but maintained a firm stance that accountability is non-negotiable.
“The Law Society of Kenya will decide on further steps once we have more information on the circumstances of our colleague’s torture and murder. We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable,” he said.
LSK concluded with a strong warning against attacks on legal professionals, insisting that justice will be pursued relentlessly.
“Justice for Tom Ouya Imbukwa is not negotiable. We will not stand by as our members are targeted, tortured and killed. The hand of the law is indeed long, and we shall ensure it reaches those responsible for this atrocity,” Kanjama affirmed.
The killing has intensified concern within Kenya’s legal circles, with calls growing for enhanced protection of advocates handling sensitive cases.