Rights violations: Sh1bn compensation paid to 1,083 victims

Nairobi, Kenya – The government has processed compensation claims totaling Sh1.014 billion for victims of human rights violations during protests and demonstrations, according to the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations. The panel confirmed that 1,083 claims, encompassing deaths, injuries, sexual violence, and economic losses, were processed on a rolling basis, with each claim subject to verification, authentication, and categorization before a payment decision.

The compensation program extended to uniformed officers as well, with 139 claims approved, covering both civilian and officer victims affected during the period under review. The panel highlighted that demonstrations and public protests often disrupted livelihoods, enterprises, and property. Of the approved claims, 96 civilian claims in Phase IV amounted to Sh74.35 million, while Phase V saw 83 civilian claims totaling Sh10.5 million.

Uniformed officers received compensation in phases IV and V, with totals of Sh7.4 million and Sh22.75 million, respectively. The panel also announced the approval of above-scale compensation for two cases after reviewing medical reports and additional information, with the potential enrollment of the victims in a lifetime medical scheme.

The compensation program faced legal and implementation challenges, including the consideration of a High Court Petition No. E488 of 2026, in which the panel was named as the second respondent. The panel emphasized that compensation does not replace criminal accountability or other legal remedies available to victims and stressed the importance of transparency and credibility in the reparations process.