NAIROBI, Kenya — Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Former President Faith Odhiambo has found herself at the centre of political speculation after appearing alongside leaders of the Linda Mwananchi faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The speculation was triggered on Tuesday when ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna shared a group photograph featuring Odhiambo alongside several leaders associated with the faction and accompanied it with a message welcoming her.
“Full parade to welcome Madam President. Welcome to Linda Mwananchi Faith Odhiambo,” Sifuna wrote on social media.
The photograph, taken beside a campaign caravan, immediately generated discussion among political observers about whether the outspoken lawyer could be preparing for a future role in elective politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
No Comment From Odhiambo
Despite the growing speculation, Odhiambo has not publicly commented on the photograph, Sifuna’s remarks, or any potential political ambitions.
As a result, it remains unclear whether her appearance signified a formal political alignment, support for the faction’s agenda, or simply attendance at an event involving its members.
Throughout her legal career, Odhiambo has largely remained outside partisan politics, building her profile through advocacy on constitutionalism, governance, human rights, and the rule of law.
In 2024, she made history after becoming the 51st President of the Law Society of Kenya, only the second woman to hold the position after Raychelle Omamo.
Before that, she served as vice president of the lawyers’ body.
Prominent Voice on Constitutional Matters
Odhiambo has become one of Kenya’s most visible legal voices, frequently commenting on constitutional issues and governance concerns.
In a detailed statement issued after the judgment, Odhiambo questioned whether a constitutional violation serious enough to attract damages should nevertheless leave the outcome of the process intact.
“The tension in the judgment lies in this: if the Senate’s refusal to adjourn was a constitutional infirmity serious enough to warrant a finding of violation and a Sh50 million award, then the question that naturally follows is whether that infirmity was capable of tainting the entire removal process,” she stated.
She argued that the right to a fair hearing is a substantive constitutional guarantee and not merely a procedural formality.
Comparison With 2017 Election Petition
Odhiambo drew parallels with the landmark 2017 presidential election petition, in which the Supreme Court of Kenya nullified a presidential election on grounds that the process failed to meet constitutional standards.
“That principle that a flawed process cannot produce a constitutionally valid outcome remains a pillar of our public law,” she said.
Her comments added to a growing legal debate surrounding the High Court’s decision to uphold Gachagua’s impeachment while awarding him Sh50 million in damages for the violation of his constitutional rights.
Political Future Remains Unclear
For now, there is no public indication that Odhiambo intends to seek political office or formally align herself with any political formation.
However, her appearance alongside prominent members of the Linda Mwananchi faction has inevitably fuelled speculation about her future, particularly given her growing national profile and influence in public affairs.
Whether the moment marks the beginning of a political journey or simply reflects engagement on issues of public interest remains uncertain.
