Irungu Houghton suspends his involvement in Ruto’s panel on protest victims’ compensation
Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director Irungu Houghton has made a surprise withdrawal from President William Ruto’s Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Protests and Demonstrations.
In a statement on Thursday, September 11, 2025, Houghton cited respect for a High Court order that suspended the team’s operations.
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“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,” he said.
Furthermore, the human rights advocate stressed that his decision was rooted in principle.
“Let it be understood that apart from the swearing in, I have not participated in any meetings or activities with or for the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims in Protests and Demonstrations. I shall not do so until the High Court gives a way forward,” he added.
Houghton, however, affirmed his continued push for justice, noting that he would keep advocating for the prosecution of those responsible for unlawful killings, reparations for victims, and safeguards against the recurrence of police brutality during demonstrations.
“I continue to advocate for judicial prosecution of all parties complicit in unlawful killings, reparations for victims and non-recurrence of brutal protest policing.”
The panel
This comes a week after the newly formed Panel of Experts on the Compensation of Victims of Protests and Riots was officially sworn in at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
The ceremony, held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, saw Constitutional Advisor Professor Makau Mutua take the oath of office as chairperson of the panel, alongside Faith Odhiambo, the president of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
Other members include Kennedy N. Ogeto, John Olukuru, Kennedy Barasa Simiyu, Linda Musumba, Duncan Ojwang’, Naini Lankas, Francis Muraya, Juliet Chepkemei, Pius Metto, Fatuma Kinsi Abass, and Raphael Anampiu.
The technical team is led by Richard Barno, supported by Duncan A. Okelo Ndeda as co-technical lead. Jerusah Mwaathime Michael and Raphael Ng’etich serve as joint secretaries.
