The High Court of Kenya has temporarily suspended the functioning of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests appointed by President William Ruto.
In orders issued by Justice Kizito Magare on Monday, 8th September 2025, the court granted conservatory measures halting the commencement of the panel’s mandate pending the hearing of a petition challenging its legality.
The court specifically suspended the implementation of Gazette Notice No. 12002 dated August 25, 2025, which had officially formalised the appointment of the panel. The petition was filed by Lawyer Levi Munyeri.
“It is hereby ordered that a conservatory order to stay the commencement of the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests pending the hearing of this Application inter partes,” Justice Magare’s directives read in part.
The body, which has stirred significant political debate across the country, particularly following the appointment of LSK President Faith Odhiambo as co-chair, was mandated to develop a framework for reparations and compensation for victims of demonstrations, public protests, and riots.
Further, Justice Magare restrained the respondents, their agents, and assignees from enforcing or acting upon the proclamation made by President Ruto on August 6, 2025, which had established the framework for compensation.
Respondents and interested parties in the case, which include, among them, the State Law Office and the Ministry of Interior CS, have also been ordered to file their submissions within three days of receiving the applicant’s documents, with a final cut-off time set for September 30, 2025.
The matter has been scheduled for directions on October 6, 2025, before the Kerugoya High Court.
