The High Court in Kerugoya has temporarily halted the implementation of President William Ruto’s directive establishing a framework for compensating victims of demonstrations, public protests and riots.
The order was issued on September 8, 2025, by Justice Kizito Magare Dennis Ngwono in the case of Levi Munyeri versus the State Law Office.The Petition challenged the legality of the presidential proclamation and the subsequent appointment of a panel of experts to oversee the compensation process.
Justice Ngwono certified the application as urgent and directed that it be heard during the court vacation. In his ruling, the judge issued conservatory orders holding the commencement of the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Demonstrations and Public Protests, which had been gazetted on August 25, 2025. The Gazette Notice had set out the framework for reparations and compensation, but the court directed that no further steps be taken until the matter is fully heard and determined.
“The court hereby issues a conservatory order restraining the respondents, their servants, agents or assigns from implementing, enforcing or in any manner acting upon the proclamation by the President of the Republic of Kenya dated 6th August 2025 establishing a framework for compensation of victims of demonstrations and public protests, pending the hearing of the application,” the order read in part.
The court also set timelines for the parties involved. The respondents and all interested parties were directed to be served forthwith and to file their responses within seven days of service. The petitioner was instructed to file submissions within three days of being served by the respondents and, in any event, not later than September 24, 2025.
The respondents and interested parties are expected to file their submissions within three days of service but no later than September 30, 2025. The matter will come up for further directions on October 6, 2025, before the High Court in Kerugoya.
The court further issued a penal notice warning that any disobedience or non-observance of the orders would result in penal consequences for those found in violation.
The contested framework was first announced by President William Ruto on August 6, 2025, as part of the government’s response to widespread protests that had rocked parts of the country. Through Gazette Notice No. 12002 dated August 25, 2025, a Panel of Experts was appointed to establish mechanisms for compensation and reparations for individuals affected by protests and riots. The move sparked heated debate, with critics questioning the constitutionality of the president’s unilateral action.
The petitioner, Levi Munyeri, argued that the framework was unconstitutional and beyond the powers of the executive. By halting its implementation, the court has effectively opened a new legal battle that could determine how far presidential authority extends in establishing compensation schemes without parliamentary input.
Justice Ngwono emphasized that the orders were necessary to preserve the status quo until the petition is fully argued.
“This application is certified as urgent and heard during the vacation. A conservatory order is hereby issued staying the implementation of the Gazette Notice appointing a Panel of Experts and the proclamation of August 6, 2025, pending the hearing of this application,” he directed.
The case is now expected to reignite debate on accountability for damages and losses incurred during public demonstrations and whether the burden of such compensation should be borne by the state, organizers or other actors. The October 6 hearing will determine the way forward, with both the government and the petitioner expected to present their arguments in full.
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