Professor Makau Mutua, Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights to President William Ruto, has defended his decision to work with the president despite past criticism. He clarified that his previous opposition was tied to the 2022 election season when he supported ODM leader Raila Odinga.

• Professor Mutua was appointed by President Ruto as the chairperson of Panel of Experts on Compensation of protest victims.
• He stated that his past op-ed was shaped by the competitive political environment, aiming to "magnify the weaknesses of the other side."
• Mutua highlighted that after the elections, ODM engaged with the president for the country's benefit, and described Ruto as a leader prioritizing national interest and open to advice.
• The panel is overseeing compensation for fatalities, serious injuries, and hospital bills, and has recommended new or amended laws regarding the right to assemble and picket.