Starehe MP demands dropping of terrorism charges before compensation
By Kiprono Keileb, September 12, 2025Starehe Member of Parliament Amos Mwago has issued a strong message on the urgent need to address cases of police brutality and extrajudicial killings in Kenya.
Speaking on his official X account on Friday, September 12, 2025, he insisted that before any compensation can be considered, the government must first act to free those who were unlawfully arrested during public demonstrations.
Mwago highlighted the immediate priority for the administration. “If indeed President Ruto mean well and wants to compensate victims of police brutality and those who faced extrajudicial killings, first he needs to withdraw all the charges imposed on those who were illegally arrested during the maandamano.”
He stressed that many citizens are still facing legal hurdles simply for participating in protests, and these cases must be resolved as a first step.
The MP also addressed the severity of some of the charges being used against detainees. “Treasonous and terrorism charges must first be dropped and freedom granted to all who were illegally arrested,” Mwago added, emphasising that true justice requires the removal of unjust legal actions before any financial compensation can be meaningful.
Mwago’s statement comes amid growing calls from civil society and human rights groups for accountability and reforms in policing. By tying the release of unlawfully arrested individuals to any compensation plans, the MP is advocating for a holistic approach to addressing past injustices. His message underscores the principle that freedom and justice must precede material remedies.
The remarks have resonated widely on social media, sparking debate on how the government should handle cases of past arrests and police excesses. Citizens and advocates see Mwago’s insistence on dropping charges first as a necessary step toward rebuilding trust between the public, law enforcement, and the administration.
By making legal freedom the starting point, Amos Mwago is challenging the government to demonstrate a genuine commitment to human rights and accountability. Without addressing the charges and restoring liberty to those unfairly detained, any compensation effort risks being seen as superficial, leaving deeper issues unresolved and undermining public confidence in justice reforms.
This comes a day after the compensation panel of experts suspended its sittings in line with the Kerogoya High Court conservatory order that halted their operations.