Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has confirmed that the government will compensate victims of police brutality linked to the protests that swept the country in 2024 and 2025.

Speaking on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the burial of former Karachuonyo MP Phoebe Asiyo in Homa Bay County, Mbadi revealed that President William Ruto has given clear instructions to ensure that funds are released promptly to support those affected.

“The victims of brutality will receive compensation. Your Excellency, the president, has tasked me with making sure that these funds are available without delay. This is not just about money; it’s about opening a new chapter one rooted in respect for human rights and the rule of law,” Mbadi said.

He emphasized that the government’s commitment is more than just financial redress; it aims to rebuild trust between the public and security agencies following the incidents of excessive force during the protests.

The demonstrations in key cities like Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa led to loss of lives, injuries, and extensive damage to property.

Civil society groups have been calling for justice, demanding fair compensation for victims and accountability for those responsible.

Earlier in the day,  President William Samoei Ruto announced the establishment of a national framework to coordinate compensation for victims of demonstrations and public protests held since 2017.

The initiative was unveiled through a presidential proclamation issued on August 8, 2025, and aims to provide reparations for civilians and security personnel who suffered bodily harm or lost their lives during protests and riots.

“I, William Smoei Ruto, President and Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces in exercise of the authority vested in me by the Constitution, do hereby establish a coordinating framework for compensation of victims of protests and riots, which shall be vested under the Executive Office of the President,” Ruto said in the proclamation.

The framework will operate under the Executive Office of the President and be implemented in partnership 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 added, stressing the importance of balancing constitutionally protected freedoms with civic responsibility and public safety.

To lead the initiative, President Ruto has appointed Makau Mutua, Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs and Human Rights, as the Principal Coordinator of the State Intervention and Compensation Framework. The team will operate for 120 days from the date of the proclamation.

Mbadi also used the occasion to reaffirm his political loyalty, stating, “Your Excellency, while I serve in your government, you know very well that I remain a proud member of ODM and I have no intention of stepping away from that.” His remarks highlight the ongoing political balance within the ruling coalition.

Additionally, Mbadi announced that the Treasury is ready to release funds allocated to county governments for the 2024/2025 financial year.

Despite delays in the passage of the County Allocation of Revenue Bill, he assured Kenyans that the funds for July would be paid early next week.

“We have made sure that the money will be paid on Monday and Tuesday so that counties can continue to operate without disruption,” he said.

The planned release of compensation and county funds shows the government’s focus on resolving pressing national challenges and supporting decentralized governance. These payments are expected to start in the coming days, offering relief to affected families and local authorities.