Claris Awuor Appointed to Lead Panel on Compensation for Protest Victims

 

By Phanice Rono 

President William Ruto has appointed Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) chairperson Claris Awuor Ogangah to the panel tasked with compensating victims of last year’s anti-government protests.

Claris replaces Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo, who resigned from the team citing concerns over its independence and a court order that temporarily halted its work.

The panel, established in August, was mandated to identify and compensate victims of police brutality during youth-led demonstrations that left dozens dead and hundreds injured. Its 120-day timeframe aimed to fast-track justice for affected families.

However, legal disputes and internal disagreements have slowed the process, raising doubts about the panel’s effectiveness. Odhiambo’s resignation further fueled concerns among rights groups, some of whom accused the government of lacking seriousness in addressing victims’ grievances.

Claris Awuor, a seasoned human rights advocate, is widely seen as a credible choice to restore confidence in the stalled process. As KNCHR chair, she has been outspoken on issues of police accountability and civil rights protection. Sources within the commission say her experience could help advance the panel’s work once the court suspension is lifted.

Despite the appointment, some civil society leaders remain cautious. “We just want victims to get justice — not endless reshuffles,” one activist said.