President William Ruto has announced the establishment of a special framework to provide compensation to victims of demonstrations and protests since 2017.
In a presidential proclamation on Friday, August 8, Ruto said the government has a duty to protect both public safety and the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.
"The Constitution establishes the dual obligations of the State and its citizens to uphold the delicate balance between civic responsibility and the exercise of constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, as enshrined in the Bill of Rights," he said.
Ruto noted that since the Constitution was passed in 2010, Kenyans have enjoyed greater freedom of expression.
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However, he added that as a result, some protests have turned violent, resulting in injuries and deaths.
"Since the promulgation of the Constitution in 2010, the expanded democratic space has afforded Kenyans from all walks of life the liberty to express themselves through demonstrations and picketing, some of which regrettably have turned violent, resulting in bodily harm and loss of life," he added.
Ruto disclosed that other than civilians, the payments will also cover police officers and other security personnel affected during the protests.
"There is compelling national interest in establishing a framework for accountability, redress and reparations for victims of demonstrations and public protests, including civilians and security personnel who lost their lives or suffered bodily harm during public protests and riots since the year 2017," he further said.
Under the proclamation, a coordinating framework will be set up within the Executive Office of the President, working in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, the National Treasury and other relevant agencies.
Ruto has appointed Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights, Prof. Makau Mutua, as the Principal Coordinator of the State intervention.
The special coordination framework will operate for 120 days from the date of the proclamation.
