NAIROBI, Kenya — Human rights activist Irũngũ Houghton has resigned from the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests with immediate effect.
Houghton announced his decision on Thursday, citing the President’s January 5, 2026, extension of the panel’s mandate by 180 days, despite a binding High Court ruling.
The Kerugoya High Court ruled on December 4, 2025, that the statutory and constitutional mandate to handle compensation lies with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
Houghton said the extension directly contradicts the court decision and undermines constitutional order.
“My decision follows the President’s extension of the Panel’s mandate despite the High Court ruling mandating KNCHR,” he said.
He warned that continuing to operate under the extended mandate risks weakening independent institutions and normalising disregard for court rulings.
Houghton urged victims, civil society, and the public to remain focused on constitutional justice.
“I urge all to remain unwavering in our pursuit of truth, justice, and reparations for victims in accordance with the Constitution and the recent court decision,” he said.
His resignation adds pressure on the government over the handling of compensation for victims of demonstrations and public protests.
The dispute has centred on whether the executive can sustain the panel after the High Court found its functions overlap with those of KNCHR.
Houghton attached his full resignation letter, detailing his concerns and reaffirming his long-standing commitment to human rights and accountability.
His exit follows growing criticism from rights groups, who argue that ignoring court rulings delays justice for victims and erodes public trust in constitutional institutions.
The government has yet to issue an official response to his resignation.
