Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr Calls for AI Regulation as Lawyers Raise Mental Health and Human Rights Concerns

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Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has called for clear regulations governing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the legal profession, warning that unchecked reliance on the technology could undermine the administration of justice.

Speaking during the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Annual Conference, Governor Kilonzo, who is also an Advocate of the High Court and Supreme Court of Kenya, said lawyers are increasingly using AI in their work, but the technology can sometimes provide inaccurate or nonexistent legal precedents.

He said there is an urgent need for the legal profession to establish clear guidelines on how far lawyers can rely on AI, including mandatory disclosure when AI has been used in preparing legal submissions.

“Technology has moved faster than law,” Governor Kilonzo said, calling on the Law Society of Kenya to develop regulations on AI use that can provide clear standards and penalties for misuse.
He warned that citing a nonexistent precedent in court could have serious consequences, particularly because judicial decisions rely heavily on the principle of stare decisis, under which lower courts are generally bound by decisions of higher courts.

The Governor also highlighted mental health challenges facing lawyers, particularly young advocates who are under increasing pressure from the demands of the legal profession.

He urged senior lawyers to mentor young advocates and help them understand that professional success takes time.

According to Governor Kilonzo, young lawyers must build their reputations gradually, emphasizing that a good professional name is one of the most valuable assets in the legal profession.

The conference also addressed financial reporting and concerns over law firms being used as avenues for money laundering. Governor Kilonzo said advocates must conduct proper due diligence and know their clients before handling funds through their accounts.

He further highlighted the importance of public interest litigation in promoting good governance, fighting corruption and protecting constitutional rights.

Governor Kilonzo said lawyers have a responsibility to defend public interests and challenge policies or actions that may undermine the rights of Kenyans.

He also raised concerns over violations of fundamental rights, including the rights to life, human dignity, freedom of speech, association and assembly, as well as increasing concerns over abductions and excessive use of force.

He said the legal profession must remain at the forefront of defending constitutional rights and ensuring that government institutions remain accountable.

The Governor said the discussions at the conference provide an opportunity for the legal profession to reflect on emerging challenges and strengthen its role in protecting justice, human rights and the rule of law.

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