Nairobi, 22 August 2025: Amnesty International Kenya welcomes the appointment of Irũngũ Houghton to the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests. For several years, we have documented and demanded justice for victims of violent suppression of protests by law enforcement officials. This has included, but is not restricted to, the 2017 and 2023 post-election violence, COVID-19, the Masimba killings and the recent Gen Z protests, among others.
Police abuses, often publicly encouraged and sanctioned by both the Police leadership and the Executive, have left deep scars. Only decisive action by the current administration will restore trust. Under international human rights law, compensation is a legal obligation. Still, it must be accompanied by other reparative measures, including taking steps to ensure protests are policed in full compliance with human rights law and standards.
Amnesty International Kenya urges the Panel to deliver a comprehensive reparations package. It must include substantial financial compensation, truth-telling, memorials, legal reforms, rehabilitation and guarantees of non-repetition. Transparency and careful verification must guide the process, and the dignity and privacy of victims and their families must be protected.
Compensation must not replace criminal accountability. Citizens’ taxes should not shield criminals. Investigations must still be undertaken, and those suspected of having committed violations amounting to crimes must be prosecuted in fair trials. We continue to demand that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions urgently, effectively and fairly prosecute those responsible.
Irũngũ Houghton joins the Panel in an advisory role in his personal capacity. His appointment will not limit his responsibility to lead Amnesty’s advocacy, litigation, and pursuit of command responsibility for the abuses that have occurred. He will remain bound by the paramount interests of the victims’ families and their demand for judicial redress.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Stellah Bosire
Amnesty International Kenya Board Chairperson