Council Slams ‘Unwarranted’ Attacks Over State Appointment
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has come out strongly in defense of Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo, criticizing sections of the media for what it terms as unfair and ill-intentioned attacks over her recent appointment to a presidential panel.
Odhiambo, who was sworn in last week as part of the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots, has faced backlash from some quarters, with critics arguing that her acceptance of the role undermines her independence.
But MCK dismissed the claims as “uncalled for and in bad faith,” noting that her decision reflects a commitment to governance and accountability. According to the council, pushing Odhiambo to reject the role is akin to asking all LSK members serving in public institutions to step down—an outcome it warned would weaken the society’s influence in shaping national policy.
‘Illogical and Counterproductive’ Demands
In its Sunday statement, MCK emphasized that LSK members have historically held prominent roles in government, including positions in the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Attorney General’s Office.
“Decisions made by these individuals are often viewed as government decisions,” the council noted. “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.”
The statement also pointed out that while the media plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable, pre-emptively condemning Odhiambo for potential failure erodes both credibility and public trust. MCK warned that bowing to what it called “mob justice” only weakens journalism’s independence and betrays the principles it seeks to defend.
Odhiambo: ‘I Have Not Betrayed Kenyans’
During her swearing-in on September 4, Odhiambo addressed the growing criticism directly. She maintained that her decision was grounded in the need to safeguard justice and ensure victims of protests receive fair compensation.
“As I take up this responsibility, let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust,” she said. “Access to criminal justice remains critical in our quest to promote and protect the rule of law as an essential element in the enjoyment of fundamental human rights and freedoms.”
MCK concluded by urging media houses to uphold fairness, restraint, and objectivity when covering such appointments. Instead of vilifying individuals who step forward in good faith, the council called for united efforts to foster accountability, healing, and national progress.
