In a significant development within Kenya’s legal and political landscape, Faith Odhiambo, the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), announced her resignation as vice chair of a panel dedicated to compensating victims of police brutality. Her departure underscores growing concerns about maintaining independence and integrity in institutions tasked with delivering justice. Odhiambo stated that her decision was driven by the need to protect the Society’s mandate from potential executive influence, thus preserving its non-partisan stance.
The panel, commissioned by the Head of State in August 2025, was designed to facilitate healing and recommend compensations for those affected by police brutality during the 2023–2024 protests. These demonstrations resulted in over 120 fatalities, with several hundred more injured. The initiative sought a collaborative approach, consulting families, human rights organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent process. However, operational challenges soon arose.
A court order, issued shortly after the panel commenced its work, stalled its operations, threatening to derail the timeline set for its task. Odhiambo lamented that the ongoing legal hurdles made it challenging to meet the panel’s objectives within the stipulated period. She highlighted the frustration of victims and civil society groups awaiting clarity on when and how reparations would proceed, as reported on JURIST.
Her resignation came amidst criticism from various quarters, including public and civil society entities, who questioned her proximity to President William Ruto’s administration. Initially, Odhiambo maintained that her role was an opportunity to address deficiencies in Kenya’s framework for victim compensation. Nonetheless, the situation highlighted a prevalent issue in public service where engaging with government initiatives often leads to perceptions of partisanship or distrust.
Odhiambo’s departure has refocused her efforts on advocating for victims’ rights through the LSK, which actively represents families impacted by police violence. Ahead of a High Court decision scheduled for October 21, the future of the compensation panel remains uncertain. As the legal proceedings unfold, victims and advocacy groups continue to seek progress in reparations.
The scenario presents a complex picture of governance in Kenya, where balancing collaboration with governmental programs and upholding institutional autonomy remains a delicate act. Odhiambo’s strategic exit, aimed at safeguarding LSK’s credibility, may well fortify its reputation as a bulwark of justice and rule of law.