Makau Mutua Defends Government’s Protest Victim Compensation Plan
Opposition Criticism Sparks Heated Response
On Saturday, August 9, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa questioned the legality of the framework.
The plan covers compensation for victims of protests and riots from January 1, 2017, to July 31, 2025.
In a sharp rebuttal, Mutua accused the two leaders of politicising every government initiative.
“They couldn’t be more wrong,” Mutua said.
Mutua Urges Unity for a ‘Noble Effort’
Mutua urged Kalonzo and Wamalwa to join what he called a “noble effort” instead of dismissing it.
“I suggest my two learned brothers find a better argument to oppose our noble efforts to heal the nation,” he stated.
He added that the opposition should offer real solutions to support victims and their families.
Global Example of Transitional Justice
Mutua defended the plan by citing international precedents.
He pointed to South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which addressed human rights violations during apartheid.
“The TRC was set up by the Government of National Unity to deal with what happened under apartheid,” Mutua explained.
He argued that victim compensation is a globally recognised transitional justice strategy.
President Ruto Confirms 120-Day Framework
President Ruto, in a statement on August 8, announced the framework would last 120 days.
It will involve members from his office, the Attorney General, Treasury, Interior Ministry, and other agencies.
“I, William Samoei Ruto… do hereby establish a coordinating framework for compensation of victims of protests and riots,” the president declared.
Mutua has been appointed to lead the coordination.
Opposition Doubts Government’s Intentions
However, Kalonzo and Wamalwa rejected the idea of the executive controlling the process.
They want the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to manage it instead.
Kalonzo questioned the morality of letting the same government accused of brutality handle compensation.
“A wolf cannot decide the matters of a cow or crow,” he remarked.
He also referenced alleged “shoot-to-kill” and “shoot-in-the-leg” orders issued during protests.
A Nation Divided Over Justice
As the debate intensifies, the government insists it is committed to healing wounds.
The opposition maintains that only an independent body can deliver credible justice.
For now, victims and their families wait to see if promises will translate into action.
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Makau Mutua Defends Government’s Protest Victim Compensation Plan
