Faith Odhiambo resigns from Ruto’s protest victim’s compensation panel
In her resignation letter, Odhiambo has stated that the proposed mandate of the panel is inadequate in addressing public concerns over the historic crisis of police overreach and protestor victimization during demonstrations
The Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo has resigned from President William Ruto’s panel for compensation of protest victims.
In her resignation letter, Odhiambo has stated that the proposed mandate of the panel is inadequate in addressing public concerns over the historic crisis of police overreach and protestor victimization during demonstrations.
“Accordingly, I have today handed in my formal and immediate resignation from the position of Vice Chairperson of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests to the Head of Public Service,” she said.
She explained that her resignation comes at a critical moment in Kenya’s pursuit of full constitutional implementation and democratic reform.
She emphasized that all rule of law institutions, particularly the LSK, must remain unified and resolute in carrying out their constitutional mandate.
Odhiambo noted that the Panel’s time-bound mandate had been halted by the courts, and its proposed 120-day tenure was likely to lapse before meaningful resolutions could be achieved.
“While the clock runs down on the Panel’s lifetime, victims continue to reach out to me in total frustration over when their requests for audience with the Panel will be honored,” she said.
Acknowledging the challenges in meeting the Panel’s tight deadlines, Odhiambo said she would prioritize other avenues to support victims, especially through her leadership at the LSK.
“My commitment to agitate for the rights of victims remains unwavering. I will continue to take up and prosecute matters on behalf of victims of police excesses during demonstrations and work towards safeguarding holistic justice for victims,” she added.
Prior to her resignation today, Odhiambo together with her Amnesty Kenya director counterpart Houghton Irungu had stepped aside pending a court petition that is ongoing on the legality of the panel.
The Mutua Makau led 16 members panel was formed by President Ruto oversee compensation for victims of protests since 2017, with Faith Odhiambo appointed as the team’s Vice Chairperson.
The appointment sparked widespread debate, with many calling on Odhiambo to consider the implications for her integrity and public trust before assuming the role.
The Atheists in Kenya Society had earlier on urged Faith Odhiambo to turn down the appointment.
They noted that as Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, she has consistently, fearlessly, and impartially promoted the rule of law and human rights in Kenya.
The group claimed that accepting the role could harm Odiambo’s public image.
