Victims of human rights violations linked to demonstrations and public protests could begin receiving compensation within days after a government-appointed panel completed the review of more than 2,400 claims.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Monday during the presentation of the Report on the Framework for Reparations for Victims of Human Rights Violations, Panel Chairperson Prof. Makau Mutua said payments could begin as early as next week once the verification process is concluded.
The panel has so far received approximately 2,500 claims from various institutions, including the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and security agencies.
According to Mutua, about 1,100 names were submitted by KNCHR, a further 1,200 by IPOA, while security agencies provided more than 200 names. The panel has also received details of over 160 business owners who suffered economic losses during demonstrations.
Mutua said every claim is undergoing individual verification before any recommendation for compensation is made.
“Each and every claim is verified and that determination of eligibility is made before any recommendation for reparations is made,” he said.
He revealed that the exercise is being managed through an AI-integrated case management system designed to track every claim, supporting document and payment decision.
The announcement comes at a time when pressure is mounting on the government to speed up compensation for victims of state violence.
A coalition representing victims and survivors has already announced plans for 10 days of demonstrations beginning June 16, accusing the government of delaying compensation despite previous assurances that the process would be concluded by June.
The group is demanding a clear implementation timetable, full disclosure of funds allocated for compensation and an immediate start to payments for all verified victims.
Despite the criticism, Mutua defended the process, insisting that the panel is working within the law and constitutional framework.
“Justice that is delivered lawfully is justice that endures,” he said.
If implemented, the compensation programme will mark one of the largest efforts yet to address grievances arising from protest-related deaths, injuries and economic losses reported across the country in recent years.