President William Ruto's Protest Victims Compensation scheme continues to be met with opposition, with the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) calling for its disbandment.
On August 8, President Ruto established the Framework for the Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots, acknowledging the regrettable incidents of violence, injury, and loss of life that occurred during anti-government demonstrations. "Whereas, since the promulgation of the Constitution in 2010, the expanded democratic space has afforded Kenyans from all walks of life the liberty to express themselves through demonstrations and picketing, some of which regrettably have turned violent, resulting in bodily harm and loss of life," Ruto noted then.
However, after internal investigations and considerations, KHRC revealed its concerns that the proposed framework risks becoming another exercise in whitewashing and cover-up rather than a vehicle for truth, justice, and accountability.
An undated photo of KHRC chairperson Maina Kiai.
