MCK DEFENDS LSK PRESIDENT FAITH ODHIAMBO AGAINST MEDIA ATTACKS

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned what it termed as unwarranted and unjustified media attacks against Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo and other Kenyans appointed to the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots. In a statement issued on Sunday, September 7, 2025, the council described the criticism directed at Odhiambo for accepting the role as being made in bad faith.

While commending the media for its role in safeguarding democracy and truth, MCK said it was both “perplexing and hypocritical” for some outlets to vilify the LSK boss. “It is profoundly perplexing and hypocritical that some sections of the media have chosen to vilify Ms. Odhiambo for accepting a role to serve the public. When an institution like the LSK criticises government actions but rejects an invitation to help address them, it risks becoming a rebel without a cause. By insisting that the LSK president decline the appointment, these outlets are limiting the society to mere criticism while ignoring its potential to improve governance from within,” the council said.

MCK emphasized that although the media has a duty to hold leaders accountable, it should refrain from attacks that erode public trust in institutions. The council stressed that Odhiambo’s appointment should be viewed as an opportunity to champion justice for victims, not as a betrayal of her leadership at the LSK. It reminded journalists and commentators that criticism must remain fair, factual, and objective. Personal attacks, it warned, only undermine democracy and weaken press credibility.

“Condemning Ms. Odhiambo for an anticipated failure before she has even begun her work is premature, cynical, and counterproductive. When the media bows to mob pressure, it betrays its own independence and erodes public trust in the very principles it claims to uphold,” the statement read. The council reaffirmed its commitment to free expression and independent journalism but called on the media to remain professional and responsible in its scrutiny of public officials. Odhiambo currently serves as vice-chairperson of the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations, Protests, and Riots.