Kivutha Kibwana lists 10 demands for protest victims’ justice amid compensation debate
By Ascah Mwango, August 11, 2025Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has made strong demands amid the ongoing debate over government compensation for victims of police brutality during recent protests.
As the government rolls out a special initiative to compensate those affected by the June 25, 2024 and 2025 demonstrations, as well as the recent Saba Saba protests, Kibwana has urged the state to take full responsibility for the violence that left many young Kenyans injured, missing, or dead.
Taking to his X account on Sunday, August 10, 2025, Kibwana called on the government to admit to what he described as gross wrongdoing against Gen Z protesters and others.
He insisted that the first step should be an official apology and a clear pledge never to repeat such actions. Kibwana demanded that all shoot-to-kill or shoot-to-maim orders be revoked, and that those responsible for violence against protesters be held accountable in a transparent way to ensure justice is served.
“TEN POINT PLAN: Response to June 25, 2024/2025 & SABASABA25 atrocities against Gen Z & Others. @StateHouseKenya Then categorically rescind the shoot to maim/kill orders and similar diktats,” he said.
He further urged the withdrawal of all court cases related to the protests and called for the refund of all bail fees paid. Missing abductees should be released immediately to their families, he said, and civil courts should swiftly conclude all cases involving victims. Kibwana also called on the Interior Ministry, the Kenya National Human Rights Commission, and human rights organisations to conduct and publish a verified audit of all victims of state violence.
“Bring to book all perpetrators so that JUSTICE is seen to be done. 4. All demonstration cases to be withdrawn & bail refunded. 5. All missing abductees to be promptly released to their families. 6. Civil courts to bring to a close each victim’s case. @Kenyajudiciary,” he added.
Kibwana warned against using the compensation program as a political tool disguised as voter handouts and emphasised the need for a genuine National Youth Marshall Empowerment Plan. He also called for the full implementation of the 2013 Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission report, along with other investigations into past injustices.
Compensation
His statements come shortly after President William Ruto announced the launch of a 120-day government initiative starting August 8, 2025, aimed at compensating victims of police brutality during demonstrations. The president said the program would be coordinated by the Executive Office of the President in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Office, the Ministry of Interior, the National Treasury, and other agencies. Makau Mutua was appointed as the Principal Coordinator of the effort.
The compensation initiative has received support from several political leaders, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who has long pushed for such a program.