The fate of millions of shillings belonging to clients of Akedi & Olalo Advocates now hangs in the balance after the firm moved to the Milimani Law Courts seeking to overturn orders freezing its bank account.
The account, held at Equity Bank, was frozen on 7th August 2025 following an ex parte application by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). According to court papers, the move has locked up client monies entrusted to the firm, raising concerns about access to justice and professional obligations.
In an urgent application, partner Samuel Olalo told the court that the continued freeze has violated the rights of clients, many of whom deposited funds for legal representation and settlements. He argued that the firm, being a registered law practice, operates trust accounts that should not be subjected to arbitrary restrictions.
“The freezing orders are interfering with the management of clients’ affairs and infringe on their constitutional rights to property and fair administrative action,” Olalo stated in his supporting affidavit.
The firm contends that it has fully complied with DCI investigations since the freeze order was issued and that further restrictions serve no legitimate purpose. They insist that the DCI has had “sufficient time” to complete its inquiries and that Equity Bank will suffer no prejudice if the account is unfrozen.
The application has been backed by co-partner Ronny Akedi, who authorized Olalo to represent the firm on his behalf. The lawyers warn that unless the court intervenes, both the law firm and its clients risk irreparable damage, including delayed settlements, halted transactions, and disruption of ongoing cases.
The matter, filed under Miscellaneous Criminal Application No. E3000 of 2025, will be mentioned on a date to be determined, when the magistrate is expected to rule on whether the freeze orders should stand.
