Over 500 Families Paid KSh 674M in Human Rights Compensation, But Torture Survivors Say They’ve Been Left Out

BY EMILY MAGDALINE

More than 500 families in Kenya have so far received compensation totaling 674 million shillings under the government’s human rights compensation programme.The payments are intended to support victims and families affected by past human rights violations.Despite the ongoing compensation, survivors of torture, abductions and enforced disappearances say they have been left out of the process. They argue that they too suffered serious violations and deserve equal recognition.

Human rights organisations are now increasing pressure on the compensation panel to expand the list of beneficiaries. They say all victims should be treated fairly regardless of the type of abuse they experienced.According to the rights groups, excluding survivors of torture and enforced disappearances creates inequality and weakens efforts to achieve justice. They insist that compensation should cover every victim who qualifies.The organisations also argue that many survivors continue to live with physical injuries, emotional trauma and financial hardship caused by the abuses they endured. They say compensation would help them rebuild their lives.

Families of victims have also joined the calls, urging the government to acknowledge the suffering experienced by their loved ones.Many say they have waited for years without receiving justice or support.However, the compensation panel has defended its approach, stating that the programme is being implemented in a systematic and deliberate manner. The panel maintains that the process follows established procedures.The panel says compensation is being handled in phases and that every claim must undergo proper verification before payments are approved. Officials insist that the process is designed to ensure fairness and accountability.Even with these assurances, rights groups continue to express concern over the slow pace of implementation.

They are calling for greater transparency and a clear commitment to include those who have so far been excluded.As the debate continues, survivors and families of victims hope the compensation programme will eventually recognize all those affected by human rights violations, ensuring that justice is delivered without discrimination or exclusion.