Protest victims to receive up to Ksh.3M under new compensation plan

The panel of experts on compensation for victims of protest-related violence has unveiled the compensation framework, detailing the amounts eligible victims may receive.

The panel, chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, has also published eligibility criteria and application guidelines ahead of the second anniversary of the June 25 protests next week.

The move follows the submission of recommendations by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to President William Ruto on Monday, in compliance with court directives.

The Mutua-led panel on Thursday made public the compensation packages for individuals affected by protest-related incidents between 2013 and 2026.

The panel confirmed that Ksh.2 billion has been set aside for compensation payments, with the announcement coming just a week before the commemoration of the historic June 25, 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.

Under the framework, victims will receive compensation ranging from Ksh.50,000 to over Ksh.3 million, depending on the nature and severity of harm suffered.

A minimum of Ksh.3 million will be paid for fatalities, at least Ksh.1 million for severe injuries and aggravated sexual violence, Ksh.500,000 for moderate injuries, and Ksh.50,000 for minor injuries.

The package also includes up to Ksh.100,000 for pending medical bills and up to Ksh.50,000 for economic loss.

The panel said its valuation is based on recommendations from KNCHR, comparative international compensation standards for similar violations, and domestic legal precedent, including court awards and compensation in human-wildlife conflict cases.

Funds will be paid directly into victims’ bank accounts upon verification of claims, with the standard of proof set at a “reasonable basis to believe,” which is lower than the evidentiary threshold used in court.

Claimants are required to submit, depending on the nature of injury, a description of the violation including date, time, location, and names of witnesses where available.

In cases of death, applicants must provide a post-mortem report, burial permit, and the national ID of the deceased, or a birth certificate in the case of a minor.

For injuries, medical reports, a P3 form, hospital receipts, and pharmacy receipts are required. In cases of sexual violence, a P3 form, medical report, and OB number must be submitted. For economic loss, claimants must provide witness statements, OB numbers, and other documentary evidence.

The panel emphasized that compensation does not exempt perpetrators from criminal liability.

Those who have already lodged claims with KNCHR or IPOA are not required to submit fresh applications.

However, others may apply through these agencies or via email at [info@victimscompensation.go.ke](mailto:info@victimscompensation.go.ke). Victims may also lodge claims in person at a physical office, which will be announced on Tuesday.

The panel noted that the names of claimants will remain confidential, though the names of those compensated may be made public with the consent of the victims.