The High Court in Kerugoya has temporarily stopped the operations of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests until it hears a case challenging its legality.
On Monday, Justice Magare Dennis Kizito Ngwono suspended both the panel’s mandate and the implementation of the presidential proclamation issued on August 6, 2025. The ruling came after lawyer Levi Munyeri filed a motion against the panel. The court certified the case as urgent and heard it during the vacation period.
Justice Ngwono also suspended Gazette Notice No. 12002 of August 25, 2025, which had formally created the panel to design a framework for reparations and compensation for victims of demonstrations, public protests, and riots.
“A Conservatory Order to stay the commencement of the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests pending the hearing of this Application inter partes,” Justice Ngwono said.
The 18-member panel, sworn in on September 4, 2025, is chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, President William Ruto’s senior advisor on constitutional affairs and human rights. The team’s mandate is to oversee compensation for victims of demonstrations and protests dating back to 2017.
The court also barred the respondents, including the State Law Office and the Interior Cabinet Secretary, from implementing or acting on the presidential proclamation.
Justice Ngwono directed the respondents and other interested parties to be served immediately, file their responses within seven days, and follow a set timetable for submissions before the next hearing scheduled for October 6, 2025.
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