Families of Gen Z protest victims reject Ksh.3M compensation proposal

With just four days to the deadline set by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) for public submissions on the proposed reparations framework, victims and affected families have rejected the current proposals.

According to the proposed framework, the commission has suggested Ksh.3 million compensation for deaths and Ksh.2 million for disappearances.

However, victims are demanding Ksh.5 million for those killed or who disappeared, Ksh.4 million for survivors of sexual violence, Ksh.3 million for those who disappeared and were later found, Ksh.3 million for victims left with permanent disabilities, and Ksh.250,000 for victims of unlawful arrest and detention.

“We demand the establishment of a clear, minimum tax-exempt compensation… five million shillings for loss of life and disappearance…” the victim’s father, George Obienge.

Beyond compensation, they are also demanding accountability and reforms. They want President Ruto to publicly acknowledge the violations and commit to ensuring such incidents do not happen again.

George Obienge, whose child was among the victims, called for reforms in policing during protests.

“Police should provide security to protestors and only shoot when their life is in danger or arrest the perpetrators," he said.

The victims have also raised concerns over what they termed as a rushed process, urging KNCHR to extend the timeline by at least 90 days and clearly outline the stages of registration, verification, validation and payment.

“We are deeply concerned that this process is being rushed for political reasons…” activist Shakira Wafula said.

Kenyans have until April 27 to submit their views on the proposed reparations framework.