Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has defended her decision to accept an appointment as the Vice Chairperson of the Panel of Experts on the compensation of victims of protests and riots. Odhiambo was appointed to the panel by President William Ruto through a gazette notice issued on August 26, 2025.
Public Debate Over the Appointment
Her appointment sparked debate across the country, with many Kenyans expressing concern that she might compromise justice for victims of police brutality during protests. A section of citizens argued that Odhiambo’s acceptance of the role could be seen as a betrayal of the fight for human rights, with the majority expecting her to decline the offer.
Odhiambo’s Firm Response
Speaking during the swearing-in of the panel on Thursday 4th september 2025, Odhiambo dismissed claims that she had betrayed Kenyans by taking up the role. In a heartfelt speech, she emphasized her continued commitment to justice and the rule of law:
As I take up this responsibility, let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust. Let it be clear that access to criminal justice remains critical to me in our quest to promote and protect the rule of law as an essential element in the enjoyment of the fundamental human rights and freedoms
LSK PresidentShe assured Kenyans that the sacrifices made by victims of protests would not be in vain and promised full transparency in updating citizens on the progress of cases.
Empathy for Victims and Families
Odhiambo took time to empathize with the families of victims, pledging that the panel’s work would deliver tangible justice. She added that the panel she has joined bears both the duty and opportunity to spearhead a revolutionary shift in victim reparations. She stated that never again shall Kenyans be killed by trigger-hungry officers for exercising their constitutional rights on the streets. Odhiambo stressed that her solemn duty is to serve justice for both the victims and the ordinary mwananchi.
Contrast With 2024 Appointment Rejection
This decision stands in contrast with Odhiambo’s move in 2024, when she turned down President Ruto’s appointment to join an independent task force to audit Kenya’s public debt. At the time, the Law Society of Kenya rejected the appointment, terming the task force unconstitutional. In a statement, LSK Secretary Florence Muturi clarified that the mandate to audit public debt lies solely with the Office of the Auditor-General. The LSK council resolved that neither its president nor any of its members would participate in such a task force.
Conclusion
Faith Odhiambo’s latest appointment has stirred debate, but she maintains that her acceptance is guided by duty, empathy, and the pursuit of justice. By serving as Vice Chair of the panel, she believes she can help champion a victim-centred approach that ensures accountability, compensation, and long-overdue reform in Kenya’s handling of protest-related injustices.
