Senators demand clarity on Sh2bn payout plan for protest victims

Two senators have asked the government to provide details on the implementation of the Sh2 billion compensation and reparation programme for people affected by demonstration-related violence.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna raised questions over the programme’s implementation, including how beneficiaries will be identified, compensation timelines and measures to address concerns raised by affected families.

On Tuesday, Osotsi sought a statement from the Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights, requesting details on the criteria used to identify beneficiaries, the number of claims received, verification procedures and compensation timelines.

While acknowledging that the Sh2 billion allocation had offered hope to affected families, Osotsi said some victims and their relatives continued to experience loss, trauma and uncertainty.

"Concerns have been raised about transparency, accountability and whether the programme will adequately address the plight of all victims, underscoring the need for clarity and justice in its implementation," he told the Senate.

The senator also sought an update on support being offered to affected families and measures put in place to address concerns arising from demonstrations.

He further requested information on efforts to trace missing persons linked to demonstrations, progress in investigations into reported cases of enforced disappearances and assistance being provided to affected families.

Osotsi also asked the committee to provide details on measures being taken to address reported cases arising from demonstrations and reforms aimed at preventing future incidents during protests and political rallies.

Meanwhile, Sifuna said discussions around the programme should also focus on preventing incidents that lead to the need for compensation.

"We shouldn't even be having that conversation because we are a country that is governed by the rule of law. There shouldn't be people to compensate in the first place," Sifuna said.

The senator said some families would prefer justice and the return of their loved ones rather than financial compensation.

He said the government should focus on addressing issues that lead to such cases.

"For me, we want that compensation to be paid, but it's not something to take pride in. In fact, we should be pushing for justice and an end to the sort of behaviour that causes these people to die in the first place," he added.