NAIROBI, Kenya – Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo and Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director Irũngũ Houghton have suspended their participation in President William Ruto’s newly constituted Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests, citing respect for court orders.
The decision follows a ruling by the High Court in Kerugoya on Monday, which temporarily halted the implementation of the President’s directive to establish a reparations framework.
Justice Kizito Magare certified a petition challenging the panel as urgent and suspended the execution of Gazette Notice No. 12002 of August 25, 2025, pending further hearings.
In separate statements issued Thursday, both Odhiambo and Houghton confirmed they would not take part in any panel activities until the court provides direction.
“For the avoidance of any public doubt, I immediately suspended my participation … in accordance with Monday’s order by the High Court and my respect for the rule of law, Constitution, and judicial oversight,” said Houghton.
STATEMENT ON THE PANEL OF EXPERTSFor the avoidance of any public doubt, I immediately suspended my participation in the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Demonstrations in accordance with Monday’s order by the High Court and my respect for the rule of
He clarified that, apart from the swearing-in, he has not attended any panel meetings.
Houghton further called for accountability for unlawful killings during protests, reparations for victims, and reforms to prevent police brutality.
Odhiambo, who was appointed vice-chair of the 18-member committee chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, stressed her independence and fidelity to the Constitution.
“It is my solemn patriotic duty and obligation to respect, uphold, and defend the Constitution of Kenya. I have not participated in any meetings or engagements with or for the Panel of Experts … I respect the rule of law and abide by the orders given by the High Court,” she said.
The LSK president also renewed her call for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to drop what she termed “trumped-up terrorism charges” against peaceful protesters and instead prosecute officers caught on camera using excessive force.
She added that the Law Society will continue offering pro bono legal services to victims and survivors of police brutality in ongoing cases across the country.
The panel, inaugurated last week, was tasked with developing a framework to compensate victims of demonstrations dating back to 2017.
Its work, however, now hangs in the balance as the matter proceeds in court.
