Thursday, September
4, 2025 - Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, has
defended her decision to co-chair the newly formed Panel of Experts on
Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots, following days of public
pressure urging her to reject the appointment by President William Ruto.
Speaking during the panel’s swearing-in on Thursday,
Odhiambo delivered an emotionally charged speech, asserting that her acceptance
was rooted in her commitment to justice and the rule of law.
“Let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust,”
she said.
“Access to criminal justice remains critical in our quest to
protect fundamental human rights.”
Odhiambo acknowledged the controversy surrounding her
appointment, admitting it was a “bold but unpopular step.”
Despite criticism from legal peers and the public, she vowed
to remain focused on victims, promising transparency and accountability
throughout the panel’s work.
“Some of my colleagues in the legal profession may not like
this move, and thousands of Kenyans have voiced their reservations. However, my
focus will remain on the victims,” she asserted.
She cited the tragic case of Joseph Oloo Abanja and Lensa
Achieng, whose infant daughter died during a police raid in Kisumu, as
emblematic of the justice system’s failures.
Odhiambo also referenced court testimony from Corporal
Fredrick Okapesi, who admitted to tampering with firearm records during the
June 2024 Gen Z protests - highlighting systemic flaws in police
accountability.
“The panel bears the duty to spearhead a revolutionary shift
in victim reparations,” she said.
“Never again shall Kenyans be killed by trigger-happy
officers for exercising their constitutional rights.”
The 15-member panel will be chaired by Ruto’s Constitutional
Advisor, Prof. Makau Mutua, with Odhiambo serving as vice-chair.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
0 Comments