The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has defended Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo from media attacks for accepting appointments to the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots.

In a statement on September 4, MCK said the attacks are unwarranted and unjustified.

The Council praised the media’s dedication to democracy and truth under tough conditions.

MCK said journalists faced brutal attacks during protests yet no perpetrators were held accountable despite identification.

The council said journalists bravely provided vital evidence under oath in trials of police officers accused of killing Kenyans.

“A conviction would reflect their courage. Suggesting the media should have refused to testify is an absurdity that undermines their pursuit of justice,” MCK said.

MCK stated that it is profoundly perplexing and hypocritical that some sections of the media have chosen to vilify Odhiambo for accepting a role to serve the public.

“When an institution like the LSK criticises government actions but declines an invitation to help address them, it risks becoming a rebel without a cause. By insisting the LSK President reject the appointment, these outlets are limiting the LSK to pure criticism, ignoring its vital potential to improve governance from within,” the Council said.

LSK Leading Public Institutions

Additionally, MCK noted that LSK members currently lead key public institutions, including the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Attorney General’s Office and even the Media Complaints Commission.

Therefore, their decisions are often viewed as government decisions.

MCK argued that demanding Odhiambo to 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,” MCK said

The Council explained that the media has an indisputable right to critique government actions and hold those in authority accountable.

Stop Anticipating Failure

However, it emphasized that condemning Odhiambo for an anticipated failure before she has even begun her work is premature, cynical, counterproductive and borders on sadism.

“When the media succumbs to the pressure of mob justice, it becomes the greatest betrayer of its own independence and objectivity, eroding public trust and betraying the principles it claims to defend,” MCK said.

The MCK has urged the media to allow the LSK President to serve on the Presidential Panel and contribute to the compensation of victims.

It also called for fairness, objectivity and restraint in reporting on the matter.

“Let us not prejudge or vilify those who choose to serve the nation in good faith. Instead, let us unite in supporting efforts that foster justice, accountability and national healing,” MCK said.