Houghton and LSK boss Odhiambo halt panel work pending High Court guidance
Both leaders confirmed in separate statements on Thursday that they will not take part in any panel activities until the court provides further direction.
Amnesty International Kenya’s Irũngũ Houghton and Law Society of Kenya’s Faith Odhiambo have suspended their participation in the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests, citing respect for a High Court order temporarily halting the committee’s work.
Both leaders confirmed in separate statements on Thursday that they will not take part in any panel activities until the court provides further direction.
On Monday, the High Court in Kerugoya issued conservatory orders stopping the implementation of President William Ruto’s directive to create a framework for compensating victims of demonstrations and public protests.
Justice Kizito Magare certified the application dated September 5, 2025, as urgent and directed it to be heard inter partes.
“Pending the hearing, the court stayed the commencement of the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests and suspended the implementation of Gazette Notice No. 12002 of August 25, 2025, which had appointed the panel to establish a reparations framework,” the order reads.
“For the avoidance of any public doubt, I immediately suspended my participation in the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Demonstrations in accordance with Monday’s order by the High Court and my respect for the rule of law, constitution and judicial oversight,” Houghton said.
He confirmed that apart from the swearing-in, he has not attended any panel meetings or activities and will await further guidance from the court.
Houghton reaffirmed his call for judicial prosecution of those responsible for unlawful killings, reparations for victims, and measures to prevent the recurrence of brutal policing.
On her part, Odhiambo emphasized her independence and commitment to justice. “It is my solemn patriotic duty and obligation to respect, uphold, and defend the Constitution of Kenya,” she said.
She explained that she does not work for the government or the opposition but is focused on serving the people of Kenya and supporting her colleagues in the legal fraternity.
“I have not participated in any meetings or engagements with or for the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Riots. I respect the rule of law and abide by the orders given by the High Court,” she added.
Odhiambo said she will continue consulting widely with victims and survivors and has urged the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to review what she calls “trumped-up terrorism charges against peaceful protesters.”
She also called for accountability of officers caught using excessive force during demonstrations. “The Law Society of Kenya will continue providing pro bono legal services to victims of police brutality in ongoing cases nationwide,” she added.
