Court Blocks Ruto’s Victim Compensation Panel Until October 21 as Pressure Mounts

Court Blocks Ruto’s Victim Compensation Panel Until October 21 as Pressure Mounts

The High Court has once again halted the operations of President William Ruto’s Victim Compensation Panel, extending conservatory orders until October 21. This latest judicial blow further delays the panel’s controversial mission to compensate victims of demonstrations and public protests.

“Orders Extended Until Then”—Judge Issues Fresh Directive

On Monday, the court confirmed its decision to prolong the suspension.

“The interim orders have been extended until then, and then refers to October 21 at 10am,” the judge ruled.

This extension follows initial conservatory orders issued on September 8 by Justice Kizito Magare, who certified the petition as urgent.

“Unlawful Exercise of Power”—Activists Challenge Panel’s Legitimacy

The petition, filed by four activists, questioned the legality of the panel’s formation. They accused President Ruto of overstepping his authority.

“The President had no legal mandate to establish such a panel,” the petition stated. “We also question the criteria used to select its members,” they added.

The activists argued that the panel undermines existing legal institutions and bypasses constitutional processes.

“I Resigned”—Faith Odhiambo Steps Down Amid Legal Storm

Coinciding with the court’s extension, Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo resigned from the panel. Her exit added fuel to the growing controversy.

“I tendered my resignation from the position of Vice Chairperson,” Odhiambo announced. “The panel’s mandate had already been stopped by the High Court,” she explained.

Odhiambo emphasized that the panel’s 120-day timeline would likely expire before any resolution.

“Panel’s Purpose Now in Limbo”—Mandate Faces Collapse

According to the gazette notice, the panel was tasked with designing a framework to verify and categorize victims. It was also expected to authenticate data from institutions like IPOA and KNCHR.

“Where evidence allows, the panel will propose prosecutions and accountability measures,” the notice stated.

However, with the court orders in place, nearly two months of the panel’s three-month mandate have already lapsed.

“Justice Must Prevail”—Public Demands Transparency

As legal battles intensify, Kenyans are demanding clarity and accountability.

“We need justice, not rushed frameworks,” said one activist. “Let the courts decide before any action is taken,” another added.

With October 21 fast approaching, the fate of the panel—and its promise of justice—remains uncertain.

ALSO READ: Faith Odhiambo Quits Ruto’s Victim Compensation Panel Amid Pressure and Court Suspension

Court Blocks Ruto’s Victim Compensation Panel Until October 21 as Pressure Mounts