Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has officially resigned from President William Ruto’s Victims Compensation Panel, following weeks of public criticism, legal challenges, and mounting pressure from various quarters within the legal fraternity and civil society.
Odhiambo, who had been serving as Vice Chairperson of the 15-member panel, said her decision was made in the best interest of upholding the independence of the LSK and safeguarding the rule of law in Kenya. The panel was created to oversee compensation for victims of demonstrations and public protests, particularly those affected by police brutality during recent anti-government demonstrations.
“Earlier today, I tendered my resignation from the position of Vice Chairperson of the Compensation Panel. I will continue to agitate for justice for all victims and pursue all key deliverables I had set out to attain,” Odhiambo announced in her statement.
Why Faith Odhiambo Resigned
Faith Odhiambo’s resignation comes at a critical juncture for Kenya’s justice system. She cited the country’s ongoing struggle for constitutional implementation and the need for unity among rule of law institutions.
“This consequential moment calls for all rule of law institutions, especially the Law Society of Kenya, to remain unified and resolute in discharging the mandate bestowed upon us by law,” she noted.
Her departure follows the High Court’s suspension of the panel’s operations, which effectively froze its 120-day mandate. The court halted all activities after a petition was filed by lawyer Levi Munyeri, who questioned the legality and independence of the panel.
Odhiambo observed that the court’s intervention meant the panel would likely be unable to fulfill its mandate within the legal timeframe, thereby undermining its purpose.
The Victims Compensation Panel and Its Controversies
President William Ruto formed the Victims Compensation Panel to design and implement a framework for compensating victims of political protests, particularly those injured or killed during clashes with security agencies.
The panel was chaired by Professor Makau Mutua, Ruto’s Presidential Constitutional Advisor, and included several prominent lawyers and human rights advocates. However, its legitimacy was quickly challenged.
Critics, including opposition leaders, civil society organizations, and some members of the legal profession, argued that the panel’s structure blurred the lines between state control and institutional independence. They expressed concern that Faith Odhiambo’s involvement could compromise LSK’s neutrality in holding the government accountable.
Public Reactions to Her Resignation
Lawyer Levi Munyeri, who filed the court case that led to the suspension of the panel, welcomed Odhiambo’s resignation.
“Faith Odhiambo, you have done the right thing. Better late than never. Now, let us turn our focus to the rest of the panel and ensure justice is delivered for our slain and injured patriots,” Munyeri said.
The High Court in Kerugoya has since extended conservatory orders stopping the panel’s operations until October 21, pending further determination of the case.
Odhiambo’s Continued Commitment to Justice
Despite stepping down, Odhiambo reaffirmed her commitment to human rights advocacy and the fight for justice for victims of police brutality.
“My commitment to agitate for the rights of victims remains impregnable. I will continue to take up and prosecute matters on behalf of victims of police excesses and work towards safeguarding holistic justice,” she stated.
She further emphasized the need for urgent legislative reforms to strengthen Kenya’s victim reparations framework, calling for collaboration between LSK, human rights bodies, and the judiciary to ensure victims are not left “prejudiced or short-handed” in their pursuit of justice.
What’s Next for the Victims Compensation Panel
With its operations currently suspended and its vice chair now resigned, the future of the Victims Compensation Panel hangs in uncertainty. Many observers believe the panel may not recover from the legal and political controversies surrounding its formation.
Nonetheless, the debate has reignited crucial national discussions on state accountability, police reform, and victim justice mechanisms—issues that continue to shape Kenya’s democratic journey.
As Odhiambo continues her advocacy outside government frameworks, her resignation sends a strong message about the importance of institutional independence and the rule of law in Kenya’s pursuit of justice.
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