[Edward Kiplimo, Standard]Over 18,000 lawyers in Kenya will have to wait until at least Friday January 23, 2026, to know their fate over engagement with public entities. Despite a plea with the High Court, Judge Samwel Mohochi did not vary his decision of January 12, which barred all public entities from engaging private law firms and lawyers. “The legal fees for all services to public entities are always capped and no lawyer can be paid above the stipulated amounts,” he submitted. “The county is unable to comply with legitimate court orders, including that ordering payments of fees. She deposed that the same ensured the public service was efficient and effective and promoted the values and principles of public service, to avoid wastage of public resources.

Source: Standard Digital January 20, 2026 20:17 UTC