Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations Chairperson Makau Mutua/ FILE
The Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations has dismissed claims that the compensation programme for victims of human rights abuses, including those arising from demonstrations and public protests, has stalled, saying payments are ongoing and more eligible claimants continue to come forward.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Panel Chairperson Makau Mutua said reports suggesting the compensation process had stopped or was no longer operational were false and misleading.
He said the programme continues to compensate verified victims and remains committed to ensuring every eligible claimant receives compensation.
"The Panel has compensated victims and continues to do so. Suggestions that the process has stalled, ceased or is nonexistent are inaccurate and malicious," Mutua said.
According to the Panel, the programme has continued to receive growing public confidence, reflected in the increasing number of compensation claims submitted by victims.
Mutua said the compensation process cannot be completed instantly because every application undergoes extensive verification before any payment is approved.
He said each claim is authenticated to establish the identity and eligibility of beneficiaries before compensation is released.
The Panel said the process also requires the express consent of every claimant before any payment is made.
According to Mutua, the verification measures are intended to safeguard public resources and ensure compensation reaches genuine victims.
"This rigorous approach is not a delay; it is a safeguard against fraud and a guarantee that public funds are directed to those who genuinely deserve them," he said.
The Panel said it would not compromise on accountability while processing compensation claims.
Mutua thanked victims who have already submitted applications, saying their cooperation has contributed to the programme's progress.
He also encouraged those who are yet to file claims to do so, assuring them that the compensation exercise will continue on a rolling basis until all eligible victims have been considered.
"We remain committed to ensuring prompt, fair and dignified compensation for all verified victims," he said.
The Panel also criticised individuals it said were spreading unverified information about the programme, warning that such claims create unnecessary anxiety among victims seeking justice.
According to Mutua, misinformation risks undermining confidence in the compensation process and causing further distress to people who have already suffered human rights violations.
To enhance transparency, the Panel said it will periodically publish and gazette the names of beneficiaries during the implementation of the programme.
However, it said beneficiaries' details will only be published after obtaining the explicit consent of each individual in line with the Data Protection Act.
The Panel said the legal requirement is intended to protect the privacy, dignity and safety of victims and should not be interpreted as a lack of transparency.
Beyond financial compensation, Mutua said the programme also offers psychosocial support to victims.
He said individuals visiting the Panel's offices can access counselling and other psychological support services as part of efforts to promote holistic healing.
The Panel said its offices at the Kenya International Conference Centre remain open to victims seeking compensation or additional information.
Mutua reaffirmed the Panel's commitment to what he described as a victim-centred approach, saying the institution would continue carrying out its mandate with integrity, transparency and compassion while pursuing justice and accountability for victims of human rights violations.
