Atwoli defends 'fake lawyer' Brian Njagi

By Peter Ochieng

Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has expressed strong support for Brian Mwenda Njagi, who is battling allegations of practising as a lawyer without any qualification.

Njagi was on Thursday nabbed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nairobi branch Rapid Action Team (RAT) after a red flag was raised by members of the public over false pretence.

Atwoli in a statement on Friday said COTU (K) firmly believes in 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.

"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 practicing 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," said the COTU-K boss.

"COTU (K) acknowledges 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. These 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."

Multiple media reports indicate that Brian has represented clients at the Magistrate court, High court and Court fo Appeal, and interestingly won all the 26 cases in favour of his clients. Atwoli states that Brian's case is not unique at all.

"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. 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," he said.

"COTU (K) calls upon the government of Kenya to take this opportunity to actualize Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Kenya. RPL is a proven mechanism for recognizing the diverse learning pathways of our citizens and for harnessing the untapped talents that can drive our nation forward," added Atwoli.

In conclusion, the COTU SG said they are available and ready to support him to ensure that his dreams are actualized.

Former Nairobi governor Mike Mbuvi alias Sonko has pledged to sponsor Brian's studies at the Kenya School of Law (KSL), 'if its fee that he lacks.'