Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of failing to genuinely commit to compensating victims of human rights violations, claiming that the proposed Ksh2 billion allocation was never meant for its stated purpose.

Speaking during a church service at ACK Nyakagumo in Maragua Constituency, Murang’a County, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, Gachagua said the government had misled Kenyans on compensation for victims of protests and other abuses.

“You said that victims will be compensated, and you put aside two billion shillings for that. That was a scam to steal from the people of Kenya,” he said.

He argued that the absence of a clear allocation for victims in the latest supplementary budget showed there was no intention to compensate those affected.

“In the supplementary budget that was released the other day, there is no provision for the compensation of victims, which means you had no such intention,” he added.

Gachagua said the government had already identified victims of protests, including those killed, injured, or abducted during demonstrations, but had failed to follow through on earlier promises.

He insisted that victims deserve compensation through a transparent and lawful process.

“Be an honourable person for once. Release the two billion shillings and let these victims be compensated as you promised so that they can get some relief,” he said.

KNCHR compensation push

His remarks came amid ongoing efforts by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to develop a national framework for compensation and reparations for victims of human rights violations.

The commission has documented thousands of claims linked to protests and is currently verifying cases before finalising the compensation framework. It has also urged the National Treasury and Parliament to ensure funding is released to support the process.

Gachagua also criticised the government over the cost of living, focusing on healthcare and fuel prices.

He said public hospitals were struggling, citing shortages of drugs, food, and basic medical supplies.

“At Kenyatta National Hospital there are no drugs, there is no food. All the money collected from patients through e-Citizen has been stolen by your government,” he said.

He added that many county hospitals were also affected, blaming the Social Health Authority system for worsening shortages.

On fuel prices, Gachagua said recent increases had placed a heavy burden on households.

“You have increased fuel prices by 40 shillings. You are purporting to reduce by nine shillings. That cannot give any relief to the people of Kenya,” he said.

He further questioned fuel import arrangements, claiming conflicts of interest and urging the government to prioritise national welfare.

The remarks add to rising political tensions over the economy, healthcare, and compensation for victims of protests, with opposition-aligned leaders accusing the government of failing to honour its commitments.