Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has challenged the government to fully explain how it is implementing the Sh2 billion compensation and reparations programme for victims of demonstration-related violence and enforced disappearances, saying Parliament must ensure the process is transparent, fair and delivers justice to all affected families.
In a statement sought from the Senate Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights, Osotsi called for a detailed account of how the fund is being managed, who qualifies for compensation and the progress made in supporting victims and their families.
The senator said the allocation of Sh2 billion had offered hope to families affected by protest-related violence, but many continue to struggle with the loss of loved ones, injuries, trauma and uncertainty over when or whether they will receive compensation.
"While the recent allocation of Sh. 2 billion has offered hope to affected families, many continue to grapple with loss, trauma and uncertainty. Concerns have been raised about transparency, accountability and whether the programme will adequately address the plight of all victims, underscoring the need for clarity and justice in its implementation," Osotsi said.
He asked the committee to explain the criteria the government and relevant agencies are using to identify beneficiaries, including how claims are being verified, the categories of people eligible for compensation, the number of applications received and the timelines for processing and paying the claims.
Osotsi also wants the committee to provide an update on compensation and other forms of support for families of those killed during demonstrations, people who sustained injuries and victims of torture and other human rights violations. He said the committee should also outline the medical, psychological, legal and socio-economic assistance being offered to those affected.
The Vihiga senator further sought a progress report on efforts to trace people who remain missing after the demonstrations and the status of investigations into enforced disappearances and other alleged human rights violations.
He also asked the committee to explain the support being provided to families whose relatives are still missing as investigations continue.
"The Committee should provide this House with details on accountability measures, including investigations, prosecutions and disciplinary action against those implicated in unlawful killings, torture and other human rights violations and enforced disappearances," he sought, adding, "as well as the steps being taken by the Government to prevent future violations during public demonstrations, including reforms, oversight mechanisms, and implementation of recommendations from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and other relevant bodies."
The statement now places the Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee under pressure to explain how the compensation programme is being implemented, account for progress made in assisting victims and outline measures the government is taking to ensure accountability and prevent future human rights violations during public demonstrations.