MCK under fire for defending Odhiambo’s appointment by Ruto

By Newsflash Repoter

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) is facing sharp criticism after it issued a statement defending Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo for accepting a presidential appointment. President William Ruto recently named Odhiambo to the Presidential Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots.

In its statement released on Sunday, September 7, 2025, the MCK condemned what it described as “unwarranted and unjustified media attacks” against Odhiambo and others who accepted appointments to the panel. The council argued that the criticism was in bad faith and undermined the principles of public service.

“The Media Council of Kenya praises the media’s dedication to democracy and truth under tough conditions,” the statement read. “However, suggesting that the media should have refused to testify in cases of police officers accused of killing Kenyans is an absurdity that undermines their pursuit of justice.”

Debate over public service and criticism

The MCK said it was perplexing that some outlets and commentators had chosen to vilify Odhiambo for accepting the role, arguing that such positions should not be seen as betrayal. According to the council, rejecting the appointment would reduce the LSK to a mere critic of government actions instead of a participant in governance reforms.

“It is profoundly perplexing and hypocritical that some sections of the media have chosen to vilify Ms. Odhiambo for accepting a role to serve the public,” the MCK added. “By insisting she reject the appointment, these outlets are limiting the LSK to pure criticism, ignoring its vital potential to improve governance from within.”

The council further argued that LSK members have long played vital roles in public institutions, including the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Attorney General’s Office. Demanding that Odhiambo decline the role, the statement said, amounted to illogical calls for all LSK members to resign from public service and limit themselves to criticism.

Call for fairness and restraint

The MCK also reminded the media of its responsibility to critique government decisions while maintaining fairness and objectivity. It warned that condemning Odhiambo for an “anticipated failure” before she had even started her work was both unfair and counterproductive.

“The media has an indisputable right to critique government actions,” the council noted. “However, condemning Ms. Odhiambo for an anticipated failure before she has even begun her work is not only premature but also cynical, counterproductive and borders on sadism.”

The council urged journalists and commentators to show restraint and avoid mob justice, which it said risked eroding the media’s own independence and credibility. It called for unity in supporting individuals who choose to serve the country in good faith.

“We call for fairness, objectivity and restraint in reporting on this matter,” the MCK concluded. “Let us not vilify those who choose to serve the nation. Instead, let us unite in supporting efforts that foster justice, accountability and national healing.”

The statement has, however, sparked backlash from sections of the media fraternity who argue that the MCK is shielding Odhiambo from legitimate scrutiny over her decision to work with the administration she is expected to hold accountable.