The Government has committed KSh2 billion towards compensation and reparations for victims of protests and unrest across the country, covering affected families, injured citizens, businesses, and law enforcement officers injured in the line of duty.

In a statement shared on x account on Monday, June 15, 2026, during the presentation of the Report on the Framework for Reparations for Victims of Human Rights Violations, President William Ruto said the programme marks a key step in advancing social reconciliation and strengthening democracy.

“As a demonstration of our commitment, we have already allocated KSh 2 billion towards compensation and reparations for those who suffered verified harm arising from protests and unrest, including affected families, injured citizens, businesses, and law enforcement officers injured in the course of their duties. Let me be clear, this is the beginning of the journey, not the end,” he said.

“This framework represents a major milestone in protecting the rights of those harmed during protests, advancing social reconciliation, providing redress for victims, and strengthening our democracy,” Ruto added.

Compensation not a reward for violence

The President stressed that the payments should not be seen as rewarding unlawful conduct, but as recognition of harm suffered by victims.

“These payments are not the price of life, pain or loss and neither are they a reward for violence, looting or unlawful conduct,” he said.

State acknowledges harm

Ruto said the initiative reflects the State’s acknowledgement that harm occurred and that victims deserve recognition as part of national healing.

“This is the state’s acknowledgement that harm occurred, victims matter and that a nation heals by tending to its wounds rather than pretending they do not exist,” he said.

He cautioned that the programme must not be misinterpreted as encouraging disorder.

“Neither should it be understood as a licence for disorder. Let no one confuse compensation and impunity,” he said.

Accountability still applies

The President maintained that compensation does not replace accountability, insisting that the law applies equally to citizens, police officers, and protesters wherever wrongdoing is established.

Eligibility clarified

Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Claris Ogangah clarified that only victims of gross human rights violations—including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, serious injuries from excessive force, and sexual violence—will qualify for the KSh2 billion programme, while ordinary criminal offences will be handled through the justice system.