Dr. Sylvia Kangara, a known legal scholar and advisor in Ruto’s circle, is now facing public backlash after what many have described as tone-deaf and irrelevant remarks during a tense national moment.
Her comments on X, which appeared to rationalize media censorship and downplay a brewing political crisis, have left many Kenyans shocked.

Rather than offer clarity or legal insight, she chose to speak in vague legalese, defending what appeared to be a political attempt to suppress public awareness of a serious national issue.
Instead of condemning state interference or abuse of power, Kangara took the side that many believe defends the regime. That position drew fierce criticism, especially from vocal commentator Willis Evans Otieno.

Otieno did not hold back. In a scathing post, he tore apart Kangara’s academic image, calling her a wasted opportunity wrapped in ego and empty words.
He accused her of lacking courage, vision, and moral clarity. According to Otieno, Kangara’s presence in the debate was just background noise in a time when the country needed real leadership, not legal cover for state overreach.
He went further to say her opinions were not only irrelevant, but it was shocking that she believed they mattered at all.

In a moment where Kenyans expected legal minds to defend constitutional order, Kangara seemed more interested in maintaining favor with the regime than standing for justice.Her dismissive replies to Otieno only made things worse.
Telling critics to “take their expectations elsewhere” only confirmed what many were already saying that she was out of touch, defensive, and unable to accept valid criticism. Otieno’s response was clear, mediocrity will not be tolerated, and those who try to sanitize oppressive tactics under the cover of law will be called out.
His message resonated with many Kenyans who have grown tired of intellectuals who hide behind their credentials while ignoring their responsibility to speak truth to power.
What stands out is the disconnect between Kangara’s celebrated academic record and her recent conduct. Her role as a law lecturer and advisor should mean defending legal principles and pushing for accountability. But her statements gave the impression that she had picked a side the wrong one.

She seemed more concerned about protecting political interests than preserving constitutional integrity. This has caused many to lose respect for her, questioning whether her achievements have any real value if they are not used in the service of justice and the people.
Online users like Eric Muriuki and Maktejah Brian supported Otieno’s stance, showing that Kangara’s views are not just unpopular they are actively being rejected by the same public she is meant to serve.
In a time when Kenyans are fighting for transparency, honesty, and democratic space, it is disappointing to see someone with Kangara’s background fail to rise to the moment.
Legal scholars are expected to provide guidance, not excuses. Instead of upholding truth, Kangara chose alignment with a government many believe is increasingly intolerant.
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