LSK Faith Odhiambo Rejects Role in Ruto’s Debt Audit Taskforce

Faith Odhiambo, president of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), has declined an invitation to join President William Ruto’s Presidential Debt Audit Taskforce. Odhiambo emphasized that the constitutional duty of auditing public debt belongs to the Auditor-General.

The LSK stated that the formation of such a taskforce is unconstitutional and urged President Ruto to respect the Auditor-General’s role. This decision reflects the LSK’s commitment to upholding the constitution, with Odhiambo and other members refusing to participate in the taskforce.

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In a decisive move underscoring constitutional adherence, Faith Odhiambo, the president of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), has firmly rejected an invitation to join President William Ruto’s newly formed Presidential Debt Audit Taskforce. Odhiambo’s stance is rooted in the constitutional mandate that assigns the responsibility of auditing public debt solely to the Auditor-General.

The LSK, in a statement, declared the establishment of the taskforce as unconstitutional, highlighting that such actions undermine the designated role of the Auditor-General. “The formation of this taskforce is not only a deviation from constitutional provisions but also an encroachment on the duties of the Auditor-General,” Odhiambo asserted.

The society’s unwavering position is a clear message to the administration about the importance of respecting constitutional boundaries. Odhiambo stressed that the LSK and its members are committed to upholding the rule of law and the constitution, hence their collective decision to abstain from participating in the taskforce.

This move has sparked a broader discussion on the separation of powers and the importance of allowing constitutionally appointed offices to perform their duties without interference. The LSK’s refusal to engage with the taskforce is seen as a stand for judicial independence and the proper functioning of governmental checks and balances.