Kenya has appointed a panel to propose reforms on how protests are handled and to improve police accountability. The announcement was made by Professor Makau Mutua, panel chairman and presidential adviser on constitutional affairs, during a briefing to the diplomatic corps on Thursday.
The panel’s mandate goes beyond compensating victims. It will recommend legal reforms to strengthen Article 37, which guarantees every person the right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, picket, and petition public authorities.
“We realised our police have performed very well in Haiti, but we have some challenges here. We shall recommend reforms to change the culture of policing so conflicts between police and demonstrators do not escalate,” Mutua said.
The panel may also recommend the prosecution of police officers who act beyond their powers. Mutua said the aim is to open a new chapter in policing that protects democracy.
Compensation for Protest Victims
The team will design a framework for compensating victims of riots and protests. This includes identifying, verifying, and determining the amount of payouts. Mutua promised a transparent and victim-centered process that will involve public participation and aims to conclude within 120 days.
Government Support
Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Musalia Mudavadi said the panel reflects President William Ruto’s commitment to justice, national healing, and the rule of law. He also noted that Parliament is reviewing the Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to maintain public order while protecting constitutional rights and public property.
Mixed Reactions
The panel has received mixed reactions. Opposition leaders Rigathi Gachagua and Martha Karua questioned its purpose. Gachagua claimed the panel is a move to appease the international community ahead of the UN Assembly. Karua argued that compensation should follow justice and warned against duplicating the role of existing constitutional commissions.
Despite the criticism, the government maintains that it prioritizes police professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights. The panel’s work could signal a major shift in how Kenya handles protests and public demonstrations.
