Faith Odhiambo, the President of the Law Society of Kenya, is under intense public scrutiny over her role in President William Ruto’s protest victims compensation panel.
After being sworn in as vice chair of the Victims Compensation Committee, Odhiambo now faces growing pressure from lawyers, activists, and Kenyans questioning her independence.
She has defended herself, stressing she does not work for the government or opposition. Her recent statements reveal a leader caught between political forces, court orders, and the cries of victims demanding justice.
Faith Odhiambo, LSK, and the Future of the Victims Compensation Committee
Faith Odhiambo has walked a fine line since her swearing-in last month. In her latest statement, she declared she has not met with fellow members of the Victims Compensation Committee and will obey the High Court order suspending the panel. She insists that her loyalty is to the law and the people of Kenya, not to political interests.
“I respect the rule of law and abide by the orders given by the High Court,” Odhiambo said. “I do not work for the Government of Kenya nor the opposition; my call is to serve Kenyans and my colleagues at the Law Society.”
Her cautious stance has raised questions on whether she is bowing to public pressure. Critics argue her involvement compromises her independence as LSK President. Others see her decision to pause as a calculated move to preserve credibility while avoiding legal backlash.
Odhiambo emphasized she remains committed to victims of protests, including those injured, killed, or wrongly charged. She vowed to continue pushing for justice and offering pro bono legal aid to survivors of police brutality.
Public Pressure and Rising Criticism
Odhiambo’s acceptance of the committee role has triggered sharp criticism within the legal fraternity. A section of lawyers believes her appointment undermines the Law Society’s watchdog role over government excesses.
Advocate Levi Munyeri has already filed a petition demanding her resignation, warning of further legal action if she does not step aside. The petition accuses her of compromising the Society’s independence by serving on a government-backed panel.
Former LSK President Nelson Havi has gone further, openly backing Charles Kanjama as a replacement. Havi even pledged Ksh1 million and a campaign vehicle to support Kanjama’s bid. His move has intensified the pressure on Odhiambo to quit, signaling a widening rift within the legal community.
These attacks paint Odhiambo into a corner. While she maintains she is consulting widely, the growing calls for her resignation cannot be ignored. Her ability to balance public trust and political pressure will shape her leadership legacy.
Victims’ Rights at the Center of the Debate
Odhiambo has tried to refocus the debate on the plight of victims. She accused the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions of mishandling justice by pursuing terrorism charges against protesters instead of prosecuting police officers responsible for shootings.
“I know there are many Kenyans who were killed and injured, while others have been profiled and taken to court over trumped-up charges,” she noted.
By keeping her focus on victims, Odhiambo signals that her involvement in the Victims Compensation Committee is about justice, not politics. LSK continues to offer free legal aid to those brutalized during protests, strengthening her position that she stands with ordinary Kenyans.
However, the question remains: can she lead the charge for victims’ rights while serving on a controversial government panel? For many, the answer will depend on whether she distances herself fully or finds a way to use her position to hold the state accountable.
