FAITH ODHIAMBO EXPLAINS WHY SHE ACCEPTED RUTO’S JOB OFFER DESPITE CALLS FOR REJECTION

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has defended her decision to accept President William Ruto’s appointment as vice chair of the newly formed Victim Compensation Panel, despite mounting criticism from sections of the public and civil society.
Speaking after being sworn in on Thursday, September 4, Odhiambo said her acceptance was guided by patriotism and the need to champion justice for victims of state violence during protests. She insisted that her role on the panel will not compromise her independence or the LSK’s position.
“I did not betray Kenyans. I chose this path because of the families I have met—mothers, fathers, and children who continue to suffer without justice. This panel gives us a chance to put victims at the centre and dismantle the culture of impunity,” she said.
Odhiambo recalled her tours across the country where she interacted with grieving families, including those of Jonah Kariuki and Gillian Munyao, saying their pain motivated her to push for a victim-led approach to reparations. She pledged transparency and promised to keep the public updated on the panel’s progress.
The LSK boss also pointed out that, unlike last year when she rejected a government appointment to a debt audit task force on grounds that it was unconstitutional, the new panel has a clear and legitimate mandate.
Her acceptance has sparked debate, with critics questioning whether working with the Ruto administration undermines her stance on accountability. However, Odhiambo maintains that her decision is rooted in principle and aimed at delivering justice to victims of rights violations.