The High Court in Kirinyaga has issued temporary orders halting the government’s plan to compensate victims of demonstrations and public protests.
In court papers dated September 8, Justice Magare Dennis Kizito granted conservatory orders after an application by Levi Munteri, who challenged the State Law Office, the Interior Cabinet Secretary, and other government agencies.
Moreover, the court has ordered the suspension of further implementation of Gazette Notice 12002 of August 23, 2025, which appointed the panel to establish a framework for reparations and compensation.
High Court Bars Compensation Linked to Protests Committee. Photo: Courtesy.
Justice Noyono issued orders barring the government and its agencies from implementing President Ruto’s August 6, 2025 proclamation on compensating protest victims, pending the case hearing.
The applicant has been directed to file submissions within three days of the respondents’ service, with any case set no later than September 24, 2025.
Respondents and interested parties must file their submissions within three days of service but no later than September 30, 2025.
All directions must be completed before the court reconvenes in Kerugoya on October 10, 2025.
This comes weeks after the government established a comprehensive framework to address victims of recent demonstrations and public protests.
Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo was named Vice-Chair of the committee on reparations and compensation for victims of demonstrations, protests, and riots, serving under Chairperson Prof. Makau Mutua.
The panel, constituted via a gazette notice dated August 26, features prominent members including Kennedy Ogeto, Irungu Houghton, John Olukuru, Rev. Kennedy Barasa Simiyu, Linda Musumba, and Duncan Ojwang.
Other appointees are Naini Lankas, Francis Muraya, Juliet Chepkemei, Pius Metto, Fatuma Kinsi Abass, Raphael Anampiu among others.
The committee was tasked with developing and implementing an operational framework to verify, categorize, and compensate eligible victims of protests, demonstrations, and riots.
