Kenyans who were injured or whose relatives lost their lives during demonstrations will begin to receive compensation from next week.
This follows the submission of the report on the Framework for Reparations for Victims of Human Rights Violations to President William Ruto.
Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) chair Claris Ogangah has said the compensation is meant to assist Kenyans rebuild their lives.
“The commission notes that collective reparations offers an important opportunity for healing fractured communities.” Claris has said.
The compensation will cover victims of violent protests witnessed in the 2017 and 2022 post-election period and those who suffered rights abuse in 2023, 2024 Finance Bill protests and 2025 Saba Saba protests.
President Ruto appointed the committee led by Ogangah to offer guidance on how the victims will be compensated.
“Kenya has taken an important step towards healing historical wounds, strengthening national unity and building a society founded on justice, human dignity, accountability and respect for human rights,” said Ogangah.
President William Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards addressing human rights violation.
The head of state has however noted that the monetary compensation cannot fully cover the loss of life and property suffered by victims.
“ The Ksh. 2 Billion we have allocated cannot replace a son or a daughter it cannot fully compensate a family or a trader for loss inquired.” Ruto said when he was handed the report at statehouse Nairobi.
“ What it represents is states acknowledgement that harm occurred; that victims matter and that a nation heals by tending to its wounds and not pretending they do not exist.” Ruto has added.
The commission has recorded various violations including deaths (245 victims), injuries (135), arrests (473), sexual violence (75), and property destruction (138).
