Faith Odhiambo Resigns from Victims of Protests Compensation Panel

LSK President Faith Odhiambo //Photo courtesy 

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has officially resigned from the government’s Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots, a 16-member team appointed by President William Ruto only weeks ago.

Odhiambo, who had been named Vice Chairperson of the panel chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, is reported to have stepped down quietly amid growing public and professional pressure.

Her appointment had stirred national debate, with critics questioning whether the head of the LSK, a body that frequently holds government accountable, could impartially serve on a politically sensitive panel. For many, her dual role risked compromising the independence of the legal fraternity, especially given the LSK’s mandate to defend human rights and justice.

“When the country’s top lawyer sits on a panel chaired by a presidential adviser, it blurs the line between oversight and allegiance,” said one senior advocate.

While Odhiambo has not publicly stated her reasons for stepping down, sources within the legal community say she faced intense criticism from both within the LSK and civil society groups, who viewed her inclusion as a potential conflict of interest.

The panel was established to identify and compensate victims of protests and riots, including those injured, bereaved, or who suffered property loss. It was framed as a gesture of healing and accountability by the government. However, Odhiambo’s resignation now casts a shadow over its legitimacy and ability to win public trust.

Analysts say her exit could reignite questions about the panel’s independence and the government’s sincerity in addressing police brutality and protest-related injustices.

Odhiambo now returns full-time to her duties at the LSK, where she has earned respect for her outspoken advocacy and willingness to challenge state overreach.

As for the panel, attention now shifts to State House, where the government must decide who will replace her and whether that choice can restore confidence in a process already viewed with skepticism.