By Shadrack Nyakoe
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Andayi Havi has formally resigned from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, confirming his exit from the political vehicle that sponsored his parliamentary bid in the 2022 General Election.
The move, which was confirmed by sources close to the seasoned lawyer, marks a decisive departure from the political establishment he had actively championed, and immediately triggers speculation about his next move on the national political scene.
Havi, a firebrand and often controversial figure in Kenya’s legal fraternity, had been a vocal and high-profile member of the UDA party, joining its ranks ahead of the August 2022 polls. His entry was highly publicized, with Deputy President William Ruto personally welcoming him to the party. He subsequently vied for the hotly contested Westlands Parliamentary seat but was ultimately defeated by the incumbent, Timothy Wanyonyi of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Following the election, Havi maintained his relationship with the party, serving as a key legal voice for the alliance. His political prominence was underscored when he was shortlisted by the Public Service Commission (PSC) for the coveted position of Solicitor General in late 2022, a post that ultimately went to someone else.
The formal reasons behind the sudden resignation remain undisclosed, but it signals a potential shift in Havi’s political priorities or a growing discomfort with the ruling party’s current direction. Havi’s political career has been characterized by his uncompromising and often abrasive style, notably during his tenure as LSK President, where he led over 20 successful legal challenges against the previous administration and successfully opposed the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI).
His exit follows that of other prominent individuals who have recently distanced themselves from the ruling party, including former UDA Vice-Chair Seth Panyako, who resigned over his strong opposition to government policies like the proposed housing levy.
Political analysts suggest Havi, known for his strong principles and legal activism, may be positioning himself for a new role outside of mainstream party politics, possibly to refocus on his legal practice and continue his robust public commentary on governance issues, which has recently seen him take a prominent role in calling for accountability within the Judiciary.
The UDA party has yet to issue an official statement regarding the departure of one of its most recognizable legal minds. All eyes are now on Havi to see if he will articulate the reasons for his resignation and whether he intends to launch a new political platform or return to his role as a relentless advocate outside the political party structure.
