ODM Deputy Party leader Abdulswamad Nassir/FILEODM Deputy Party leader Abdulswamad Nassir has welcomed President William Ruto’s decision to establish a national framework for compensating victims of demonstrations and public protests, terming it a vital step toward justice, accountability, and reconciliation.
In a statement issued on Friday, Abdulswamad said the initiative, if implemented with “integrity and transparency,” would offer long-overdue redress to families and individuals who have suffered loss of life, injury, and trauma during political unrest.
He described it as a moment that “sets the stage for national healing by affirming the dignity of every Kenyan life and acknowledging the pain endured during moments of political unrest.”
“Kenya’s democratic history is inseparable from the sacrifices of brave citizens who took to the streets to demand reforms, defend civil liberties, and resist injustice,” he said.
“It is my firm belief that this action will not only bring closure to many grieving families, but also serve as a foundation upon which a more reconciled and inclusive Kenya can be built.”
The Mombasa governor expressed gratitude to ODM leader Raila Odinga for his lifelong commitment to justice and the rule of law, noting that the initiative reflects the spirit Raila has embodied throughout his political career.
He also commended President Ruto for “his courage and leadership” in initiating the compensation plan, expressing hope that it would “bring closure to many grieving families” and build a “more reconciled and inclusive Kenya.”
Abdulswamad urged that the process be guided by “openness, fairness, and respect for human dignity” and pledged ODM’s constructive engagement to ensure the initiative delivers “truth, healing, and a better future for all.”
His remarks followed a presidential proclamation on Friday in which President Ruto announced the creation of a coordinating framework for compensating victims of protests and riots dating back to 2017.
The framework will cover both civilians and security personnel who lost their lives or suffered bodily harm during demonstrations.
The President said the Executive Office of the President will lead the process in collaboration with the Attorney General’s office, the Ministry of Interior, the National Treasury, and other relevant state agencies.
Ruto appointed Prof Makau Mutua as the principal coordinator of the initiative, with a 120-day mandate to operationalise the framework.
The President described the move as being in the “compelling national interest” and aimed at reinforcing the constitutional balance between civic responsibility and the freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
He said it was essential to provide accountability, redress, and reparations to those affected by violent protests and riots.
The proclamation is being viewed by political analysts as a rare moment of convergence between the President and the opposition, with potential to cool political temperatures ahead of the 2027 General Election.
