Activist Karanja Matindi has unleashed sharp criticism against Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo following her resignation from the government-appointed Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests.
In a pointed X post directed at Odhiambo, Matindi accused her of aligning with what he called a "murderous dictatorship" under President William Ruto, suggesting her decision to join the panel was a grave misstep.
"Dear Faith Odhiambo. An old goat doesn't sigh without good reasons. You chose to associate yourself with a murderous dictatorship. Having refused to listen to counsel, given in good faith, you made your bed. You must lie on it. A shameful, sad end to what could have been an exemplary period in the public service," Matindi wrote.
He further remarked on the irony, stating, "Faith Odhiambo's misadventure and dalliance with Ruto's dictatorship could turn out to be a great win for the Constitution of Kenya. She, almost certainly unwittingly, knocked off crucial bricks on some rather unstable structures. They're about to collapse."
Odhiambo's resignation, announced on October 6, came amid mounting public pressure and legal hurdles.
Appointed vice chairperson in August 2025, she cited stalled progress due to court challenges halting the panel's 120-day mandate, as well as the need to protect LSK's independence.
The panel, chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, aimed to recommend reparations for victims of police brutality during anti-government protests since 2017, including over 120 deaths in recent youth-led demonstrations.
Her acceptance of the role had drawn backlash for creating a conflict of interest with LSK's advocacy against state excesses, tarnishing her image as a rule-of-law champion during the Gen-Z protests.
Odhiambo vowed to continue fighting for victims through LSK, pushing for legislative reforms on reparations, memorialization, and institutional changes.
Matindi's words reflect broader sentiments among critics who view the episode as exposing flaws in government accountability efforts.