From death row to the Bar: LLB graduate William Okumu’s remarkable journey

It was while in prison that William began his journey to the bar, studying LLB Bachelor of Laws through the University of London’s distance learning programme. In doing so he continues the strong link between the University of London and prisoners who study law – including Nelson Mandela.

The University of London Undergraduate Laws team has been working with Justice Defenders to provide access opportunities to inmates to study for University of London qualifications since 2010 and have provided learning materials, academic visits, bursaries and other subventions on the costs of study.

William doesn’t dispute his conviction, saying that “economic and social pressures led me to make choices I wouldn’t otherwise consider”. Nevertheless, it was a shock when he was given what was at the time a mandatory death penalty.

William joined Justice Defenders in 2013, completing the University of London programme in November 2018. The following year, after Kenya's Supreme Court unanimously declared the mandatory death penalty unconstitutional, William was re-sentenced and immediately released.

“I was motivated to take part in the LLB course because I had a desire to better understand the legal issues faced by those who have had firsthand experience with the justice system,” says William. “I also have a passion for advocating for others and positively impacting the community, and aspirations to work in law, social justice or public policy.”

William said he had a deep desire for knowledge, with his own experiences driving an interest in how law shapes society and individual lives.

“In terms of life experience, having faced legal challenges or injustices sparked a passion for understanding and reforming the legal system,” he says. “Now I hope to help others navigate legal issues. The LLB has also provided a sense of empowerment: to gain the tools and knowledge to advocate for oneself and others effectively.”

The degree provided William with legal knowledge, critical thinking, communication skills and career opportunities; it also engendered a strong commitment to advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

“I strive to understand the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals and communities, ensuring their voices are heard,” says William. “I actively support policies and initiatives promoting justice and equality, working to change systems perpetuating injustice. By raising awareness about legal rights and resources, I empower others to advocate for themselves. I also engage with local organisations and initiatives that support marginalised groups and foster a sense of solidarity.”

William now works as an advocate and a legal officer at Justice Defenders – and he is also a scout leader in Kenya, a position that allows him to influence the lives of young people.

This journey involved gaining deep understanding of legal principles, developing strong advocacy skills, and actively engaging with communities to support those in need. I am committed to learning continuously, building relationships and making a positive impact through my efforts. It’s a path that requires dedication and a passion for justice, and I’m excited to see where it leads.

Reflecting on his time with Justice Defenders, William says:

“The most significant part of my journey with Justice Defenders has been witnessing the transformative impact of advocacy on individuals and communities. Engaging directly with those seeking justice has deepened my understanding of systemic issues and the importance of legal representation. The journey from behind bars to the Bar has been so fulfilling; one of the most memorable moments is convincing [my fellow prisoner] Morris Kaberia to join the LLB course despite unsuccessful attempts. Today we are free men working together.”

About Justice Defenders

Justice Defenders is a registered UK charity and US nonprofit working to provide legal education, training and practice within defenceless communities where individuals are at disproportionate risk of conflict with criminal law by the nature of their socio-economic status, or ethnicity.

Its founder, Mr Alexander McLean is a University of London alumnus (LLM) and its patrons include Dame Linda Dobbs, QC; Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala; The Rt Hon Lord Paul Boateng (Baron Boateng of Akyem Wembley); the Right Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin; and former Channel 4 newsreader Jon Snow.

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