The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has announced the closure of the current phase of complaints-taking on alleged gross human rights violations, including those linked to recent anti-government protests, commonly referred to as maandamano.
In a public notice issued Friday, the Commission reminded Kenyans that April 3 marks the deadline for submitting cases to be included in the initial list of victims.
The documentation process forms part of KNCHR’s broader mandate to investigate human rights abuses and recommend appropriate action to the government.
“As the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) concludes the current phase of complaints-taking for gross human rights violations, including during #maandamano, KNCHR reminds the public that today is the deadline for the initial list of victims,” the statement read.
The Commission indicated that all submissions received by the close of business on Friday will be considered in its forthcoming report and recommendations to the government. The report is expected to be submitted within 60 days from March 6, 2026, the date of the relevant Gazette Notice that triggered the process.
“Submissions received by today will be included in the Commission’s report and recommendations to the Government, to be submitted within 60 days of the March 6, 2026, Gazette Notice,” KNCHR said.
The complaints exercise has focused on documenting cases of alleged abuses, including excessive use of force, unlawful arrests, and other violations reported during the protest period. KNCHR has been receiving testimonies from victims, families, and witnesses as part of its fact-finding mission.
Despite the closure of this initial phase, the Commission emphasized that the process of seeking justice and redress for victims will continue beyond the current deadline.
“Please note that reparations are a continuous process; the Commission remains committed to documenting all victims in ongoing phases,” the statement added.
KNCHR reiterated that individuals who may have missed the deadline will still have opportunities to submit their cases in subsequent phases of the exercise. The Commission underscored its commitment to ensuring that all victims of human rights violations are identified and their cases documented comprehensively.
The ongoing inquiry comes amid heightened public scrutiny over the handling of protests and allegations of misconduct by security agencies. Human rights groups have consistently called for accountability and justice for victims, urging the government to act on findings and recommendations that emerge from such investigations.
The Commission’s final report is expected to play a key role in shaping government response, including possible reparations and policy reforms aimed at preventing future violations.
KNCHR urged the public to continue engaging with the process, stressing that public participation is critical in establishing a complete record of events and ensuring that justice is served.
