The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has strongly criticized media houses that attacked Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo for accepting her appointment to the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots.
In a statement on Sunday, September 7, the MCK described the criticism as “uncalled for and in bad faith,” noting that serving on the panel is a constructive way of promoting governance and accountability. According to the council, asking Odhiambo to reject the appointment is illogical and would undermine the LSK’s ability to influence public policy.
“To demand that Ms Odhiambo reject her appointment is an illogical demand tantamount to calling for all LSK members in public service to resign and focus solely on criticising the government,” MCK stated.
The council further observed that LSK members already occupy influential positions in key public institutions such as the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Attorney General’s Office. Rejecting such roles, MCK argued, would make the society appear like “a rebel without a cause.”
While acknowledging the media’s critical role in holding the government accountable, MCK cautioned that condemning Odhiambo prematurely risks eroding public trust in journalism.
“The media has an indisputable right to critique government actions. However, condemning Ms Odhiambo for an anticipated failure before she has even begun her work is premature, cynical, and counterproductive,” the council said.
On her part, Odhiambo dismissed claims of betrayal during her swearing-in speech on September 4. She emphasized that her acceptance of the role was guided by the duty to safeguard justice and ensure victims of protests receive fair treatment.
“As I take up this responsibility, let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust,” she stated.
MCK urged media houses to remain fair, objective, and constructive in reporting, stressing that balance is key in fostering justice, accountability, and public trust.
