An 18-member panel tasked with overseeing compensation for victims of protests in Kenya was sworn in on September 4, 2025, aiming to deliver justice to over 100 families who lost loved ones during demonstrations over the past year. The panel, appointed by President William Ruto, will assess claims and ensure accountability for human rights violations, amid calls for substantial reparations.
The committee, chaired by Professor Makau Mutua, Ruto’s senior advisor on constitutional affairs and human rights, includes Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo as vice chairperson.
Odhiambo, who initially expressed reservations about her appointment, emphasized that the process must extend beyond financial compensation to ensure prosecution of those responsible for the deaths. “I have chosen a bold but unpopular step to ensure the families affected get justice,” she said, stressing the panel’s impartiality and commitment to the rule of law.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, 115 people were killed and over 1,000 were injured in protests nationwide over the past year, sparked by issues including high living costs, overtaxation, and unemployment. The panel’s formation follows Ruto’s August 8 proclamation to establish a compensation framework for victims dating back to 2017.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, speaking on Citizen TV’s Tonight show, called for hefty compensation, estimating a minimum of Ksh.23.4 million per family based on victims’ potential lifetime earnings. “A life can never be compensated, but the government must be genuine,” Owino said.
The panel faces challenges, including verifying beneficiaries and securing sustainable funding. Mutua emphasized anchoring the process in legislation for transparency and enforceability. Cases warranting prosecution will be referred to courts, with ongoing investigations, such as the case of the late activist Masai, continuing at Milimani Law Courts.
The committee’s work is expected to rebuild public trust while addressing systemic issues of protest-related violence. Observers will watch closely to see if the panel delivers on its promise of justice and accountability.
