By KPC Reporter
Families of victims killed during protest-related violence now want immediate compensation, saying prolonged court processes and unfulfilled promises have left thousands living in poverty, pain, and uncertainty.
In a press statement released on Wednesday, the victims said many families lost breadwinners during protests and have received no compensation to date, despite waiting for years.
“Compensation is long overdue. Families cannot eat court rulings. Children cannot go to school on legal arguments. Widows cannot survive on promises,” the statement read.
The families accused authorities of using court processes to delay justice, arguing that legal battles have only prolonged their suffering instead of providing relief.
“We strongly condemn the continued use of courts to delay, frustrate, and drag victims’ cases. The justice system must not be turned into a marketplace where victims’ suffering is traded and delayed,” they said.
They further warned of what they described as a growing culture of “court brokers” and middlemen who allegedly benefit from prolonged cases while victims remain uncompensated.
“These court brokers and middlemen are not seeking justice for victims; they are prolonging cases for personal, political, or financial gain,” the statement said.
The victims also turned their criticism toward some civil society groups and activists, accusing them of fundraising in the victims’ name while allegedly blocking or slowing down compensation.
“They do not represent us. They fundraise in our name, yet families remain hungry. This betrayal of victims must end,” the families stated.
At the same time, the group expressed support for President William Ruto’s initiative to compensate victims of protest-related violence, describing it as a direct and humane solution that should not be undermined.
“We unequivocally support the President’s initiative to compensate victims. It must not be sabotaged, delayed, or redirected by court games or external agendas,” they said.
“We are not objects of sympathy. We are citizens demanding justice,” the statement said, adding, “Tumesahaulika sasa—but we will not be silent anymore.”