VISION

To be the best institution in the region in the provision of public legal services and promotion of a just, democratic and corruption-free nation.

MISSION

To facilitate the realization of good governance and respect for the rule of law through the provision of public legal services, protection and promotion of human rights and upholding of ethics and integrity.

MANDATE

Article 156 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the Office of the Attorney General Act 2012 establishes the Office of the Attorney General.

Executive Order No 1 of 2023 refers to the Office of Attorney General and Department of Justice as State Law Office.

Role of the Attorney General;-

  • The Government’s principal legal advisor, responsible for representing the national Government in court or any other legal proceedings to which the national Government is a party (other than criminal proceedings) and for performing any other functions conferred to the Office by an Act of Parliament or by the President;
  • Discharges the functions of a Cabinet Secretary in relation to the Department of Justice and therefore, is responsible for the promotion of human rights and implementation of the Constitution, access to justice including through the promotion of legal aid, good governance, anti-corruption strategies, ethics and integrity, legal education and law reform, among others;
  • Provides policy, coordination, and oversight with regard to various legal sector institutions and therefore has a broader cross-cutting mandate to support the strengthening of legal sector institutions;
  • The Attorney General is also the promoter of the rule of law and defender of the public interest.

FUNCTIONS

  • Represent the national Government in court or in any other legal proceedings to which the national Government is a party undertaking civil litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution on behalf of the Government;
  • Review and oversee legal matters pertaining to Public Trustee and administration of estates and trusts;
  • Negotiate, draft and vet local and international instruments, treaties and agreements involving the Government and its Institutions;
  • Adjudicate complaints made against practicing advocates, firms of Advocates, a member or employee thereof and where necessary ensuring that disciplinary action is taken;
  •  Draft bills, subsidiary legislation, notices of appointment to state corporations, constitutional and public offices, and review of laws.
  • Review and oversee legal matters pertaining to the registration of companies, business names, societies, adoptions, and marriages.
  • The Office also provides policy on:
    • Administration of justice;
    • Legal policy management;
    • Legal aid and advisory services;
    • Political parties policy management
    • Elections policy management; anti-corruption strategies
    • Integrity and Ethics
    • Constitutional Affairs