Makau Mutua thanks Ruto for naming him head of protest victims compensation team
By Aloys Michael, August 8, 2025President William Ruto’s advisor, Makau Mutua, has welcomed his new role as coordinator of the protest victims compensation team, thanking both Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for entrusting him with the crucial assignment.
Makau’s team will operate under a 120-day tenure from the date of the proclamation.
In a statement on his X account on Friday, August 8, 2025, shortly after the announcement, Mutua described the move as bold, unprecedented, and transformational for Kenya’s human rights culture.
“I take this opportunity to unreservedly thank President William Ruto for establishing a framework for the compensation of victims of protests and riots, and for appointing me to head it,” the statement read.
He said that the Head of State’s action is unique not only in Africa but globally.
“Visionary leaders seize historic opportunities, as President Ruto has done. I have taught, written, fought for, lectured on, and practised the law of transitional justice for close to three decades, and I never thought such a pioneering action would occur in Kenya in my lifetime,” Mutua wrote.
Mutua also acknowledged Raila’s role, thanking him for partnering with the President on this initiative.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Raila Odinga for walking this journey with the President,” he said.
Relive for protest victims
Mutua vowed to diligently carry out the mandate given to him.
“I am humbled and honoured that H.E. President Ruto has bestowed upon me this awesome responsibility. I promise him and the country that we will rise to the challenge. Aluta continua!” the statement read.
The framework aims to coordinate compensation and support for victims affected by demonstrations and public protests since 2017, marking a significant step in transitional justice efforts.
It will operate under the Executive Office of the President and will be implemented in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, the National Treasury, and other relevant government agencies.
“There is compelling national interest in establishing a framework for accountability, redress and reparations for victims of demonstrations and public protests,” Ruto said.
He emphasised the importance of balancing constitutionally protected freedoms with civic responsibility and public safety.