The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has issued a strong rebuke against what it calls “unwarranted and unjustified” media attacks on Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo.
The criticism stems from her decision to accept an appointment to the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots.
In a statement, the MCK expressed “utmost concern” over the vilification of Odhiambo and other Kenyans who have taken up roles on the panel. The council argued that the media’s stance is not only premature but also hypocritical, given its own history of collaborating with government institutions in the pursuit of justice.
The MCK praised journalists for their courage in testifying against police officers accused of killing citizens during protests, noting that this bravery was crucial for accountability.
The council called it “an absurdity” to suggest that the media should have refused to provide evidence in these cases, stating such a view would “undermine their pursuit of justice.”
This history, the MCK noted, makes the current condemnation of Odhiambo profoundly "perplexing." The council questioned the logic of outlets that demand the LSK—an institution known for criticizing the government—reject an opportunity to help address systemic issues from within. The MCK stated that by doing so, the media risks turning the LSK into "a rebel without a cause," limiting its role to pure criticism rather than constructive engagement.The MCK further highlighted that many LSK members already hold key positions in government and public institutions, including the Judiciary and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Demanding that Odhiambo reject her appointment, the statement argued, is illogical and “tantamount to calling for all LSK members in public service to resign.”
Such a stance, the council asserted, is neither logical nor constructive, as it “undermines the very fabric of collaborative progress.”
While the MCK affirmed the media’s right to critique government actions, it warned against “prejudging” Odhiambo’s work before she has even begun. The council described the attacks as “cynical, counterproductive and border[ing] on sadism.”
The MCK urged journalists to allow Odhiambo to serve on the panel and contribute to the compensation process. It called for "fairness, objectivity and restraint," warning that when the media gives in to "mob justice," it betrays its own principles of independence and objectivity, ultimately eroding public trust.
