Irungu Houghton, one of Kenya’s most prominent human rights defenders, has suspended his participation in a government-backed panel on protest victims, following a High Court order halting its operations.
Mr Houghton, who serves as the executive director of Amnesty International Kenya, confirmed his decision on Thursday.
“For the avoidance of any public doubt, I immediately suspended my participation… in accordance with Monday’s order by the High Court and my respect for the rule of law, constitution and judicial oversight,” he said in a statement.
President William Ruto formed the 18-member panel to design a framework for compensating victims of protests and demonstrations dating back to 2017. Mr Houghton was appointed in his personal capacity last month and had only attended the swearing-in ceremony.
“I shall not do so until the High Court gives a way forward,” he said, making clear that he had not taken part in any meetings or activities related to the panel.
Dr Stellah Bosire, chair of Amnesty Kenya’s board, said Mr Houghton had embraced the appointment when it was first announced on 22 August. But she stressed it would not weaken his leadership at Amnesty.
“His appointment will not limit his responsibility to lead Amnesty’s advocacy, litigation, and pursuit of command responsibility for the abuses that have occurred,” she said. “He will remain bound by the paramount interests of the victims’ families and their demand for judicial redress.”
Even while stepping back, Mr Houghton underlined that his fight for justice was unchanged. “I continue to advocate for judicial prosecution of all parties complicit in unlawful killings, reparations for victims and non-recurrence of brutal protest policing,” he said.
The panel has faced growing scrutiny since its creation, with some civil society leaders warning it risks becoming a political tool rather than a path to accountability. For many victims’ families, the question now is whether promises of compensation will translate into real justice — or remain stalled in the courts.
About the Author
