Kenya's protest victims' compensation panel, chaired by Prof Makau Mutua, has processed 259 claims worth Sh83.65 million. The panel, which is responsible for compensating victims of human rights violations, including those linked to demonstrations and public protests, has been working to ensure that eligible individuals receive fair compensation for their suffering. The panel's verification process remains ongoing, with victims who have not yet submitted their claims urged to come forward through official channels.
The 259 claims processed in the latest phase cater to both civilian victims and uniformed officers who suffered human rights violations. The compensation awarded varies according to the category and severity of harm suffered. The largest category comprises 133 claims for minor injuries, each attracting Sh50,000, translating to Sh6.65 million. This is a significant portion of the total compensation, highlighting the large number of minor injury claims.
In addition to minor injuries, the panel verified 54 claims involving moderate injuries, which were awarded Sh500,000 each, totalling Sh27 million. There were also 35 claims for severe injuries, with each claimant receiving Sh1 million, bringing the category total to Sh35 million. These awards demonstrate the panel's commitment to providing fair compensation to victims.
The panel also processed claims for aggravated injuries, economic losses, and other categories. Aggravated injuries accounted for seven claims at different compensation levels, with a total of Sh13.5 million awarded. Economic losses accounted for 30 claims, each valued at Sh50,000, translating to Sh1.5 million. These claims highlight the diverse range of harm suffered by victims.
The panel's chairperson, Prof Makau Mutua, has urged victims who have not yet submitted their claims to come forward. He emphasized that the panel remains committed to ensuring no eligible individual is left behind. Every claim undergoes careful verification and authentication before a decision is made. This process ensures that only legitimate claims are compensated.
The compensation programme is intended to address harm suffered by victims of human rights violations, including those linked to demonstrations and public protests. The panel has pledged to maintain engagement with victims to hear their concerns, clarify the status of claims, and ensure eligible victims are treated fairly and with dignity and respect. This commitment to transparency and accountability is essential in the compensation process.
The panel will notify claimants of the outcome of their applications in due course, while asking victims and beneficiaries to remain patient as the process continues. With the verification process ongoing, it is expected that more claims will be processed in the coming weeks. The panel's work is crucial in providing justice and compensation to victims of human rights violations in Kenya.
Key points
- The panel has processed 259 claims worth Sh83.65 million, with varying compensation for different categories of harm suffered.
- The panel's verification process remains ongoing, with victims who have not yet submitted their claims urged to come forward.
- The compensation programme aims to address harm suffered by victims of human rights violations, including those linked to demonstrations and public protests.
