KNCHR calls for final submissions as protest victims compensation deadline nears

Individuals affected by recent public demonstrations have been advised to submit their reports within the remaining days as the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights moves closer to closing the reporting period for claims tied to possible compensation, with the April 3, 2026 deadline fast approaching.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has maintained that it is receiving cases from victims who were injured during protests, along with families who lost relatives, as part of efforts to document eligible claims before the window closes.

In a statement issued on Friday, Claris Ogangah made a renewed appeal to the public, urging prompt submission of complaints while the commission completes preparations for a national compensation and reparations structure.

She indicated that the commission is nearing completion of the framework and that the current phase is crucial for capturing all relevant and genuine cases within the set timeframe.

"The commission is in the final stages of developing a national framework for compensation and reparations, noting that the remaining week of the 60-day reporting window is critical to ensure all legitimate claims are captured."

She further noted that the ongoing stage represents the last opportunity to gather and document verified reports connected to violations arising from protests.

"The process is at an advanced stage, which she termed as the final window for documenting as many genuine cases as possible."

The framework being developed is based on the commission’s constitutional responsibility and is supported by a Gazette Notice, a court decision, and a Presidential Proclamation that instructed the body to prepare and present a reparations plan within 60 days.

Ogangah also clarified that the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights remains the only institution mandated to receive and record claims related to protest-linked violations for compensation purposes.

Those submitting claims are required to provide supporting documents such as medical reports, P3 forms, police occurrence book numbers, and post-mortem reports where applicable.

For individuals unable to visit offices in person, the commission has opened alternative submission channels, including email, SMS, and social media platforms, to allow wider access.

The commission has offices at its headquarters in Nairobi as well as regional offices across the country, where staff are available to assist applicants in filing their cases.

At the same time, the commission has reassured the public that while the current exercise focuses on protest-related violations within the defined period, other human rights complaints will continue to be handled beyond the April 3 deadline under its broader mandate.