Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has firmly rejected financial compensation as a standalone solution for the families of young people killed during last year’s anti-government protests, stating that true justice must come first.
Speaking at an event in Kajiado on Sunday, Kalonzo emphasized that any attempt to compensate victims’ families without addressing the underlying injustices is “pointless.” He announced the launch of a People’s Restorative Justice initiative, an opposition-led effort to expose the truth behind the killings and ensure full accountability before any compensation discussions begin.
“Last year’s protests led to many deaths of our youth… Compensation without justice is pointless,” Kalonzo said.
The protests, sparked by widespread opposition to the now-withdrawn 2024 Finance Bill, saw numerous casualties among youth demonstrators, many of whom were met with excessive force by security agencies. The opposition has long condemned what it views as state-sanctioned brutality and impunity during these events.
Kalonzo further stressed the inseparable link between justice and development, arguing that genuine progress cannot occur while systemic injustices remain unresolved.
“You cannot have development without justice… We are determined that this country changes,” he added.
In response to mounting pressure, President William Ruto established a national compensation framework for victims of public protests. The 18-member panel, chaired by Prof. Makau Mutua, his adviser on constitutional affairs and human rights, was tasked with managing the process.
However, the framework has faced legal hurdles. The High Court in Kerugoya recently issued a temporary suspension of its implementation, following a petition challenging the framework’s legitimacy and procedural integrity.
As calls for transparency and accountability grow louder, Kalonzo’s remarks signal the opposition’s commitment to justice-driven reform, not just symbolic financial remedies. The focus, he insists, must be on uncovering the truth, holding those responsible to account, and rebuilding public trust.
