President William Ruto has unveiled a new framework aimed at providing compensation to victims of demonstrations and public protests, including both civilians and security personnel who have suffered harm since 2017.

In the proclamation, Ruto acknowledged the constitutional responsibility to strike a balance between civic freedoms and public safety.

“The State must uphold the delicate balance between civic responsibility and the exercise of constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, as enshrined in the Bill of Rights,” he noted.

The Head of State noted that while expanded democratic space since the 2010 Constitution has allowed Kenyans to express themselves freely, some protests have “regrettably… turned violent, resulting in bodily harm and loss of life.”

Citing a “compelling national interest” in addressing the aftermath of such incidents, the President directed that the framework shall be managed under the Executive Office of the President.

He further designated Prof. Makua Mutua, Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights, as the Principal Co-ordinator of the State Intervention and Compensation framework.

The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with key government bodies, including the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Interior & National Administration, the National Treasury, and other relevant state agencies.

The framework’s tenure will run for 120 days from its commencement date, with the President affirming his commitment by appending his signature and the Public Seal on August 6, 2025.