KNHCR identifies over 1,800 anti-government protest victims, submits names for compensation

Speaking during a sensitisation forum for protest victims in Kagio Town, Kirinyaga County, KNCHR Commissioner Prof. Marion Mutugi said the commission had compiled a comprehensive list of individuals who were killed or injured during protests between 2024 and the present.

Prof. Mutugi noted that many Kenyans suffered serious injuries, while others lost their lives during the demonstrations, emphasising that the State has a duty to ensure such violations of human rights are never repeated.

She reiterated that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to participate in peaceful demonstrations without interference from law enforcement agencies.

"The law does not permit the use of excessive force during protests. Anyone who advocates or engages in excessive force operates outside the law," she said.

The commissioner called for criminal proceedings against individuals found responsible for human rights violations during the protests, stressing that accountability remains crucial in safeguarding constitutional freedoms.

Prof. Mutugi revealed that the commission had received numerous complaints from victims and their families, many of whom responded after KNCHR invited those who had been shot or injured during the protests to come forward.

"We have had an overwhelming response from people who were injured during the demonstrations," she said.

She urged the government to expedite the compensation process and ensure that survivors receive rehabilitation and support to rebuild their lives.

Addressing concerns over the compensation fund, Prof. Mutugi clarified that KNCHR had not received any money for disbursement despite President William Ruto's announcement that Ksh.2 billion had been set aside to compensate victims of the protests.

"I want to make it clear to the public that KNCHR does not have this money, and it has not been given to us. Our role is to receive complaints, verify claims, and develop the framework for compensation, not to pay victims directly," she explained.

Several victims who attended the forum expressed frustration over delays in compensation, saying some survivors have been left with permanent disabilities and continue to face financial and medical challenges while awaiting government assistance.

The KNCHR has maintained that prompt compensation, rehabilitation, and accountability for human rights violations are essential to delivering justice to affected families and preventing future abuses during public demonstrations.