Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director, Houghton Irungu, has suspended his participation in President William Ruto’s Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Demonstrations, following a High Court order halting the panel’s operations.
“For the avoidance of any public doubt, I immediately suspended my participation in the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Demonstrations in accordance with Monday’s order by the High Court and my respect for the rule of law, constitution and judicial oversight. I shall not do so until the High Court gives a way forward,” Houghton stated.
Houghton was appointed to the panel in his personal capacity last month by President William Ruto
His decision comes amidst heavy criticism from the public demanding he rescind Ruto’s appointment due to the nature of his job of defending human rights. Houghton has been a critic of the government, especially regarding human rights violations and many.
While stepping back from the panel, Houghton underscored that his advocacy for justice remains unchanged. “I continue to advocate for judicial prosecution of all parties complicit in unlawful killings, reparations for victims and non-recurrence of brutal protest policing,” he affirmed.
