The High Court sitting in Kerugoya has extended conservatory orders suspending the implementation of a presidential directive establishing a compensation panel for victims of demonstrations and police brutality. The orders, which were first issued in early September, have been extended pending the hearing of the case scheduled for October 21, 2025.
Justice Edward Muriithi extended the orders that temporarily bar the government from implementing Gazette Notice No. 12002 of August 25, 2025. The notice had created a panel of experts tasked with developing a framework for compensating individuals who suffered injuries, losses, or fatalities during public protests and riots that have rocked the country in recent years.
The panel’s mandate, as outlined in the presidential proclamation of August 6, 2025, was to propose mechanisms for reparations to victims of police brutality, many of whom were young people who participated in anti-government demonstrations. Official records show that more than 120 people lost their lives and hundreds were injured during protests held in 2024 and 2025.
The initial conservatory orders were issued by Justice Kizito Magare on September 8, 2025, after the case was certified as urgent. The court at that time suspended the panel’s operations and directed that all government agencies and officials refrain from taking any steps toward implementing the president’s directive until the matter is fully heard and determined.
Following the earlier ruling, respondents and interested parties were ordered to file their responses within seven days, while the applicant was given three days to submit written arguments. Further submissions from both sides were to be filed by September 30, 2025.
The ongoing legal battle highlights growing tensions between the executive and sections of the public concerned about the government’s handling of protest-related violence. Critics have argued that the formation of the compensation panel was politically motivated, while supporters claim it was a necessary step toward justice for victims of state excesses.
The Kerugoya Court’s decision to extend the suspension means that the compensation initiative remains on hold until the matter is heard on October 21, when both parties are expected to present their full arguments. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for how Kenya addresses accountability and reparations for victims of police violence.
