MCK slams attacks on LSK president Odhiambo as unfair and unfounded, urges media to exercise fairness

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has slammed a section of media outlets and critics targeting Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo over her acceptance of a government-appointed panel role, terming the attacks unfair and unfounded.

In a statement on Sunday, the Council said the unwarranted criticism directed at Odhiambo and other Kenyans who accepted positions on the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots are “uncalled for and in bad faith.”

According to MCK, just like the media is dedicated to democracy and truth under tough conditions, the attacks on Odhiambo undermine the same values.

“During protests, journalists faced brutal attacks, yet no perpetrators were held accountable despite identification. In trials of police officers accused of killing Kenyans, journalists bravely provided vital evidence under oath. A conviction would reflect their courage. Suggesting the media should have refused to testify is an absurdity that undermines their pursuit of justice,” the council said.

The Council also described the criticism of Odhiambo as “profoundly perplexing and hypocritical,” arguing that pressuring her to reject the role reduces the LSK to “pure criticism, ignoring its vital potential to improve governance from within.”

MCK noted that several LSK members already serve in key public institutions, including the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Media Complaints Commission.

“To demand that Ms Odhiambo reject her appointment is an illogical demand tantamount to calling for all LSK members in public service to resign and focus solely on criticising the government. Such a stance is neither logical nor constructive; it undermines the very fabric of collaborative progress,” read the statement.

While acknowledging the media’s right to hold authorities accountable, the Council cautioned against preemptive condemnation.

“Condemning Ms Odhiambo for an anticipated failure before she has even begun her work is not only premature but also cynical, counterproductive and borders on sadism. When the media succumbs to the pressure of mob justice, it becomes the greatest betrayer of its own independence and objectivity, eroding public trust and betraying the principles it claims to defend,” MCK warned.

The Council urged journalists to exercise fairness and restraint, calling on them to allow Odhiambo to serve on the Presidential Panel.

“Let us not prejudge or vilify those who choose to serve the nation in good faith. Instead, let us unite in supporting efforts that foster justice, accountability and national healing,” the Council said.

Critics have argued that Odhiambo’s acceptance of the government-appointed panel role could undermine her reputation as a fearless defender of the rule of law.

Odhiambo, who rose to prominence as a bold critic of President Ruto’s administration, gained recognition for standing up against police brutality and advocating for the young and vulnerable.

When she was elected LSK president in March 2024, becoming only the second woman to hold the post after Raychelle Omamo, she promised to make the society the “indispensable voice for the rule of law.” Her campaign focused on three key pillars: stabilising the society, supporting young advocates and defending legal principles.

At the height of the Gen Z protests in June 2024, Odhiambo openly challenged the government, urging civil society and international bodies to hold it accountable for police killings and violent crackdowns.

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• MCK slams attacks on LSK president Odhiambo as unfair and unfounded
• urges media to exercise fairness

She condemned the abductions of protesters, likening them to “Moi-era brutality.” In July 2024, she rejected an earlier state appointment to a task force auditing Kenya’s debt, calling it unconstitutional.

“Auditing is the job of the Auditor General,” the LSK said under her leadership, insisting the appointment violated the law.

Her acceptance of the vice chairperson role has now prompted some lawyers to call for her resignation from LSK, accusing her of betraying the society’s independence. Social media users have also criticised the move, arguing it compromises her integrity.

Odhiambo, however, defended her decision, insisting her commitment to justice remains intact.

“As I take up this responsibility, let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust. The bloodshed by our comrades must not be in vain. No, I will not even take any prisoners in this cause,” she said.

She added that working within the system is the most effective way to secure justice for victims of police killings during protests.

“Holistic justice requires that as we seek accountability from perpetrators, we remain alive to the needs of victims,” she said.