A man facing allegations of practicing law without the necessary qualifications has vehemently denied any wrongdoing while expressing gratitude for his supporters. Legal authorities in Kenya have intensified their call for the arrest of a man operating under the identity of "Brian Mwenda," labeling him a "masquerader" who has assumed the credentials of a genuine lawyer, Brian Mwenda Ntwiga.
The accused, despite being described as a "fake lawyer" by local media, has managed to secure victories in all 26 lawsuits he argued stirring controversy and a spectrum of reactions across Kenya.
The case, which has captivated the East African nation in recent days, has triggered a range of emotions, from outrage to amusement. Despite stern condemnation from the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the country's Director of Public Prosecutions, the alleged imposter has garnered significant support, including an unexpected endorsement from Kenya's Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), who laud him as a "brilliant young mind" that has achieved success "without traditional qualifications."
Notably, the controversial former governor of Nairobi, Mike Sonko, has thrown his weight behind the accused, even going so far as to publicly endorse him in a social media video.
In the video, the accused individual, who appeared to be Mwenda, offered his gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I would like to convey my gratitude to the people that are supporting me and praying for me... in the fullness of time I will be able to clear this misunderstanding. I will also be able to provide my innocence and provide the actual context."
He further mentioned his intention to present a statement at a police station.
Sonko, known for his divisive political history and allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering, vehemently defended the accused, stating that those attacking the "fake lawyer" were "nincompoops." He emphasized that the individual in question had not committed any violent crimes or acts of terrorism.
Despite this outpouring of support, Kenya's Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Mulele Ingonga, has remained resolute in pursuing legal action against "Mr. Mwenda."
In a statement released on Saturday, Ingonga declared, "I have directed the Inspector General of the National Police Service to undertake expedited comprehensive investigations." He further pointed out that this case was not an isolated incident, as he has observed an "increased number of cases involving unqualified individuals masquerading as Advocates of the High Court of Kenya."
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