A storm is brewing in the coastal legal fraternity after two Mombasa-based advocates were accused online of allegedly turning a prestigious internship opportunity into what critics describe as a “bedroom audition.”
Lilian Oluoch and Jane Kimori, co-partners at Oluoch Kimori Advocates located at Texas Alarm Building along Fidel Road in Nyali, have found themselves at the centre of explosive allegations shared on blogs and social media platforms.
According to claims circulating online, some former male interns allege they were subjected to inappropriate advances and an uncomfortable working environment while attached to the firm. One of the phrases that has since gone viral in the unfolding scandal is “lazima upande kitanda,” loosely translated as “you must get on the bed,” allegedly referencing what interns claim was an unspoken expectation tied to career progression.
One former intern, in comments widely shared on social media, described one of the partners as “a micromanager and very rude,” further alleging a hostile work culture. He warned aspiring pupils against applying for internship positions at the firm, claiming young advocates were mistreated.
The allegations, however, remain unproven. As of the time of publication, there has been no formal complaint publicly filed before the Law Society of Kenya or the Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal regarding the matter. The accused lawyers have not publicly responded to the claims.
The unfolding saga comes at a time when Kenya’s legal sector has been rocked by a series of sexual misconduct allegations involving senior lawyers and law lecturers. In recent months, several advocates in Nairobi and other counties have faced accusations from interns and junior staff over alleged abuse of authority and sexual coercion within chambers and court corridors.
Under Kenyan law, sexual harassment in the workplace is addressed under the Employment Act and the Sexual Offences Act, with employers required to maintain policies protecting employees and interns from harassment. The Law Society of Kenya’s Code of Standards of Professional Practice and Ethical Conduct also bars advocates from engaging in conduct that brings the profession into disrepute.
Legal analysts note that interns, commonly referred to as pupils, occupy a vulnerable position in law firms. Their admission to the Bar depends partly on successful completion of pupillage, making them susceptible to pressure from supervisors who wield considerable influence over recommendation letters and certification.
If formal complaints are lodged and substantiated, the consequences could range from disciplinary action and suspension of practising certificates to possible criminal investigations.
For now, the matter remains in the realm of allegations traded online, but it has ignited debate about power dynamics in Kenyan law firms and whether male interns, often assumed to be less vulnerable, may also be victims of workplace sexual exploitation.
Efforts to reach the advocates for comment were unsuccessful by press time. Should they respond, their position will be included in subsequent coverage.
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