By Michelle Ndaga
Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has clarified her position regarding the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Riots, saying she has not taken part in its work beyond the swearing-in ceremony.
In a statement shared on her official Facebook page, Odhiambo emphasized her commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law, and the independence of the LSK.
“It is my solemn patriotic duty and obligation to respect, uphold, and defend the Constitution of Kenya. Let it be clear that apart from the swearing-in, I have not participated in any meetings or engagements with or for the Panel of Experts,” she said.
Odhiambo noted that she fully respects the High Court’s Conservatory orders suspending the panel’s activities pending the determination of petitions challenging its legality.
She stressed that her allegiance is neither to the government nor the opposition but to Kenyans and the legal fraternity.
She further renewed her call for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to review terrorism-related charges brought against peaceful protesters and instead hold police officers accountable for excessive use of force during demonstrations.
“The Law Society of Kenya will continue to offer pro bono services for victims and survivors of police brutality in ongoing cases across the country,” she affirmed.
Her statement comes amid public debate and litigation over the panel’s constitutionality and the government’s broader framework for compensating protest victims dating back to 2017.
