Last call for victims as KNCHR closes reparations list window

KNHCR Chairperson Claris Ogangah at a past event/HANDOUT.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has issued a final call to victims of human rights violations to submit their claims for inclusion in the first list of beneficiaries under the national reparations and compensation process.

The commission’s notice, dated Friday, April 3, confirms that today is the deadline for victims who wish to be considered in the initial list.

“Today is the deadline for victims of human rights violations who wish to be considered in the first list of reparations that should be submitted in 60 days from March 6, 2026," the notice said.

Submissions can be made at the KNCHR Head Office, located on the first floor of CVS Plaza, Kasuku Lane, off Lenana Road, or through the official website, email, SMS, WhatsApp, toll-free line, and telephone.

Regional offices in Nyahururu, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kitale, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, and a satellite office in Kajiado are also available for support.

At least 1,224 victims of human rights violations have been verified by the commission as part of ongoing efforts to develop a national framework for compensation and reparations.

The announcement came following a directive from President William Ruto, who, through Gazette Notice No. 3114 of 6th March 2026, requested the Commission to submit a report containing the Reparations Framework within sixty days. The move is guided by Article 254(2) of the Constitution.

KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah said the Commission has prepared a working document that is guiding consultations with victims, government agencies, civil society organisations, and other interest groups.

“Upon input from stakeholders, a draft Reparations Framework will be generated and thereafter subjected to extensive public participation in line with the Constitution,” she said.

The compiled list covers a wide range of gross human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, abductions and enforced disappearances, evictions, sexual and gender-based violence, loss of property, and loss of livelihoods.

The Commission is currently verifying the submissions to ensure they meet the established eligibility criteria.

Ogangah noted that the Commission has not been able to conduct nationwide outreach as initially envisaged due to insufficient budgetary allocation.

She urged the National Treasury to release funds approved by Parliament without delay, so that the Commission can execute its constitutional mandate efficiently.

Victims of human rights violations, including those arising from protests and demonstrations, are being urged to submit supporting documentation such as P3 forms, medical reports, OB reports, post-mortem results, witness statements, and other relevant records.

The Commission said its offices will remain open during the public holiday to accommodate victims.