NAIROBI, Kenya — Victims of human rights violations committed during protests and demonstrations will be eligible for compensation under a new Sh2 billion government-backed programme, but the initiative will not replace efforts to hold perpetrators accountable, a panel overseeing the process has said.
The Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations, including those arising from protests and demonstrations, said the reparations programme is intended to provide recognition and redress to victims while preserving ongoing legal and institutional accountability processes.
Speaking through a statement issued on Thursday, panel chairperson Makau Mutua emphasized that compensation should not be viewed as a substitute for justice.
“The Panel wishes to emphasise that this process is separate from, and does not replace, ongoing accountability measures,” Mutua said.
The programme, established under Presidential Proclamation No. 1 of 2026, will be guided by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Reparation Guidelines 2026 and targets victims of human rights violations committed between 2013 and 2025.
Sh2 Billion Set Aside for Victims
According to the panel, Parliament has appropriated Sh2 billion to fund the first phase of compensation claims.
The initiative will cover individuals who suffered physical, psychological, economic, or other forms of harm during demonstrations and public protests. The framework will also extend to security personnel affected while carrying out their duties during the same period.
“The compensation programme is designed to acknowledge the trauma and losses experienced by individuals, including civilians and security personnel, who suffered harm while exercising or protecting their constitutional rights,” the panel said.
Officials say the programme aims to provide a structured pathway for relief while ensuring transparency, fairness, and responsible management of public resources.
The panel described the initiative as a formal acknowledgment of victims’ experiences and suffering.
“The programme is an act of solemn acknowledgement. It serves to validate the experiences of victims and to provide a clear pathway for relief,” the statement added.
Justice Process Remains Open
The panel stressed that individuals seeking compensation will retain the right to pursue justice through courts, independent commissions, and other accountability mechanisms.
The clarification comes amid concerns from victims’ groups and human rights organisations that compensation programmes can sometimes be used as alternatives to criminal investigations and prosecutions.
Kenya has faced sustained criticism over allegations of police brutality, excessive use of force, enforced disappearances, and unlawful killings during demonstrations over the past decade.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly called for independent investigations and prosecution of those responsible for abuses committed during public protests.
The panel’s statement seeks to reassure victims that acceptance of compensation will not affect their ability to seek legal remedies or accountability against alleged perpetrators.
Applications to Open
The panel has released a set of frequently asked questions outlining eligibility requirements, application procedures, and safeguards available to applicants.
Further details on how victims can apply for compensation are expected to be released as implementation of the programme begins.
The reparations initiative forms part of broader efforts by the government and human rights institutions to address historical grievances linked to protests and demonstrations while advancing recognition of victims’ rights.
