Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has defended her decision to accept the role of Vice Chairperson on the panel of experts tasked with compensating victims of protests and riots. The appointment was announced by President William Ruto in a gazette notice on August 26, 2025.
Odhiambo’s acceptance of the position sparked public debate, with critics arguing that she risked compromising justice for victims of human rights violations during demonstrations. Many had expected her to decline the appointment, fearing that participation could be seen as aligning with the government at the expense of citizens’ rights.
During the panel’s swearing-in on Thursday, Odhiambo dismissed these claims, asserting that her acceptance did not constitute a betrayal of Kenyans. In a heartfelt speech, she emphasized her 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,” Odhiambo stated.
She further assured the public that she would keep Kenyans informed on the progress of victims’ cases and that her role would not undermine the country’s human rights gains. Expressing empathy for families affected by protest-related violence, she pledged that their suffering would not be in vain.
“The Panel of Experts that I join today bears both the duty and opportunity to spearhead a revolutionary shift in victim reparations,” Odhiambo said. “Never again shall Kenyans be killed by trigger-happy officers for exercising their constitutional rights on the streets.”
This is a departure from Odhiambo’s decision in 2024, when she declined President Ruto’s offer to join an independent task force auditing the country’s public debt. At the time, LSK Secretary Florence Muturi noted that the task force was unconstitutional, as the mandate to audit public debt rests solely with the Auditor General, who is legally required to complete the audit within six months after the end of each financial year. LSK resolved that neither Odhiambo nor any member would participate in the task force.
By accepting the victim compensation panel role, Odhiambo has sought to balance her duty to uphold the law while directly contributing to justice for affected Kenyans, signaling her commitment to reform and accountability in sensitive national matters.
