Atwoli, Sonko, KUSO Rush To Brian Mwenda's Rescue

The Central Organization of Trade Unions Kenya (COTU) has expressed its support for Brian Mwenda, who was exposed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) for allegedly posing as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya to defraud unsuspecting clients.

In a statement, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli on Friday, October 13 lamented the troubles and condemnation Mwenda was being subjected to despite his brilliance at a young age for practising law without the traditional law qualifications.

COTU made reference to the principle of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which acknowledges and values the knowledge, skills, and competencies individuals have acquired through non-traditional learning pathways.

Brian Mwenda Njagi flagged by the Law Society of Kenya-Nairobi branch as a fake lawyer. /MIKE SONKO

"The case of Brian Njagi raises critical questions about the accessibility and inclusivity of professions in Kenya.

"If, indeed, it's true that Brian has been practising 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," stated COTU in part.

Atwoli acknowledged that Kenya is home to a multitude of highly skilled and talented youth who have acquired their expertise through practical experience, self-study, and non-formal educational avenues.

He complained that individuals, despite their outstanding abilities, often find themselves excluded from opportunities in the formal sector because the system typically prioritizes qualifications from traditional learning pathways.

"As a seasoned labour leader, I can speak authoritatively that Brian’s case is not unique. I know of many great engineers, accountants, teachers, IT experts, cybersecurity experts, social workers, creatives, footballers, farmers, immigrants, plumbers, carpenters, and paramedics who are specialists in their areas of interest yet without any paper to show their qualifications," he recalled.

"While some of them persevere the pains of being in a classroom to be taught what they already know, the majority don’t and thus end up being discriminated against."

Atwoli urged President William Ruto's government to actualize Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Kenya. RPL is a proven mechanism for recognizing the diverse learning pathways of Kenyan youth and for harnessing the untapped talents that can drive the country forward.

The COTU boss went on to extend a graceful hand to Mwenda, informing him "that we are available and ready to support him to ensure that his dreams are actualized."

In line with the Principle of Prior Learning (RPL), Atwoli cited in his defence of Mwenda, a bill presented in Parliament on October 6, which seeks to allow Kenyans who acquire knowledge and skills informally to apply for formal certificates. 

Mwenda was even given the nickname 'Mike Ross' in comparison with a character of the same name played by Canadian actor Patrick J. Adams, a wildly popular character on the Suits TV series. Ross was hired by top lawyer Harvey Specter as an associate lawyer, despite him not having graduated college or having a law degree.