Relatives of those who died during the June 2024 Gen Z protests in Nakuru have raised concerns over the delayed payment of the government’s promised Ksh 3 million compensation. The payout, meant to address human rights violations, has yet to reach several families despite their timely submission of all necessary documentation.
Grieving Families Seek Justice
At her home in Pipeline Estate, Rose Kihuga mourns the loss of her son, Michael Kihuga, who was fatally shot during the protests. She holds onto his postmortem report and police records as painful reminders of his death.
"We were told to submit documents, which we did. Yet, no compensation has been received. I even provided my bank details to IPOA after they requested them," Rose said, expressing frustration over the stalled process.
Similarly, in Manyani, Maria Luhola Shikwe laments the death of her 17-year-old autistic son, Austine Onyisa, another victim of the unrest. Despite being among the first to apply through the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, her family has not received any compensation, unlike others.
"We keep checking the lists and see others have been paid, but we remain in limbo. We wonder where we stand," Maria stated, highlighting the emotional toll of the delay.
Calls for Government Action
Both families say they have been reassured by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the compensation committee that their claims are being processed but remain in uncertainty.
They urge the government to expedite payments and ensure justice for all victims’ families. Maria emphasized, "Even if others are compensated, the killings must stop for us to have peace."
- Families submitted all required documents promptly.
- IPOA confirmed receipt and processing of claims.
- Some families have been compensated, but others remain unpaid.
- Victims’ relatives call for faster government response and accountability.
