Nandi Senator Kiprotich Cherargei has unleashed scathing criticism against Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo following her abrupt resignation from the government-appointed Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests.
As a fellow LSK member, Cherargei expressed profound embarrassment and disappointment, labeling the move a surrender to online bullying and a betrayal of leadership principles.
In a statement posted on social media, Cherargei decried the decision as emblematic of weak resolve in contemporary Kenyan leadership.
"It's unfortunate that our society is nowadays led by cowards who fear to make hard and painful decisions in their leadership for the benefit of our country and rule of law," he wrote, invoking nostalgia for bolder times.
He contrasted Odhiambo's actions with the tenure of former LSK Chairman Willy Mutunga in the 1990s, when the society boldly challenged authoritarianism under President Daniel arap Moi, pushing for multiparty democracy despite detention risks.
"What happened to the era when Willy Mutunga was the LSK President? Bure kapisa!!!!" Cherargei exclaimed, using the Swahili phrase for "total rubbish."
Odhiambo stepped down on October 6, citing stalled progress due to court challenges, the need to protect LSK's independence, and mounting pressure from detractors.
Appointed Vice Chairperson by President William Ruto in August to overhaul victim reparations frameworks amid backlash over police brutality in anti-government protests, her role had sparked internal LSK turmoil and public outcry.
She pledged to continue advocating for victims through LSK litigation, including expediting court cases on police excesses.
Cherargei's outburst highlights deepening rifts within Kenya's legal fraternity, where calls for accountability clash with institutional autonomy.