Human rights activist Hussein Khalid has dismissed government efforts to compensate families of victims killed during the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, insisting that true justice can only be achieved through the arrest and prosecution of police officers responsible for the deaths.

Speaking as Kenyans marked the anniversary of the historic June 25 demonstrations on Thursday, June 25, 2026, Khalid accused the government of attempting to use compensation as a substitute for accountability.

“The government should not hoodwink the public with compensation. We want justice, and justice means we want the killer cops arrested and charged in a court of law,” Khalid said.

His remarks come amid renewed calls from families of victims, civil society organisations, and rights groups demanding accountability for the deaths and injuries that occurred during nationwide protests in 2024. The demonstrations, largely driven by Gen Z activists, culminated in the storming of Parliament on June 25, 2024, after lawmakers passed the controversial Finance Bill.

According to the human rights activist, dozens of protesters were killed, and many others were injured during the unrest, with several reports alleging the excessive use of force by security officers. While the government has pledged support and compensation for some affected families, critics argue that financial settlements cannot replace criminal accountability.

Khalid maintained that justice for the victims requires thorough investigations and prosecution of those found responsible for unlawful killings. He warned that failure to hold officers accountable would entrench a culture of impunity within the security services.

“The lives that were lost cannot be reduced to compensation packages. Families deserve answers, and the officers responsible must face the law,” he said.

Govt begins compensation

The sentiments from the outspoken activist have come days after the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations started paying the first batch of victims affected by protests and public demonstrations in Kenya. The announcement was made on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, marking the formal start of the reparation programme covering cases from 2013 to 2025.

The panel, chaired by Makau Mutua, confirmed that only victims who have given consent will receive compensation. It stressed that consent is the final step before any payment is released. Eligible victims who have not yet submitted consent forms or payment details were urged to do so without delay.

The breakdown shows 115 families receiving Ksh3 million each for fatalities, totalling Ksh345 million. A further 24 victims with severe injuries received Ksh1 million each, totalling Ksh24 million. Another 137 people with moderate injuries were paid Ksh500,000 each, amounting to Ksh68.5 million. Sixty victims classified under minor injuries received Ksh50,000 each, totalling Ksh3 million.