In a bold move to curb skyrocketing legal expenses, the Nairobi County Government has recruited 60 new in-house lawyers, aiming to reduce reliance on costly external legal firms. Governor Johnson Sakaja defended the decision, emphasizing the county’s unsustainable legal spending.
“We have had cases where a single legal firm bills Nairobi County over a billion shillings. As a government, we cannot continue down this path. Hiring our lawyers will not only save costs but also ensure that we have greater control over the quality of our legal work,” Sakaja stated.
Before this recruitment, the county had only 24 in-house lawyers. With the new additions, the legal team now stands at 84, enhancing its capacity to manage litigation, conveyancing, contracting, compliance, and legislative affairs more efficiently. The new team will be embedded within various county departments to streamline legal operations and enhance governance. Sakaja urged them to uphold professionalism and diligence in executing their duties.
“You are a crucial part of this administration, and we have high expectations for you to deliver on our manifesto. Even if you face resistance, remain steadfast, and let your conscience guide you. You are transforming lives and restoring hope,” he said.
The Office of the County Attorney, which oversees legal affairs, operates under the Nairobi City County Attorney Act, 2020. Nairobi County Attorney Lydia Ireri reminded the new lawyers of their duty to maintain integrity and protect the county’s interests. “Accountability and integrity must come first. You have a duty to uphold these values and not compromise the county’s interests. Always aim to protect the county’s interests in everything you do,” she said.
Nairobi County’s legal expenditure has been under intense scrutiny. In 2022, legal bills hit a staggering Sh21 billion, prompting urgent reforms. Last year, City Hall partnered with the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) to establish a structured legal framework, reducing reliance on external legal firms by placing county lawyers on fixed salaries.
The county’s legal payments have long been a subject of investigation, with various agencies probing financial irregularities. The latest recruitment is seen as a step toward restoring transparency and fiscal discipline in Nairobi’s legal affairs.
