The government-appointed panel responsible for overseeing compensation for victims of recent protest-related violence has warned political leaders and interest groups against politicizing the process.
According to the panel, the compensation exercise must remain focused on justice.
And support for those who genuinely suffered injuries, loss of property, or the death of loved ones during the demonstrations.
Members of the panel emphasized that turning the process into a political contest risks undermining both its credibility and the dignity of victims seeking redress.
Mandate Focused on Justice and Verification
The panel explained that its mandate is strictly humanitarian and administrative.
Its role is to verify claims, assess the extent of losses suffered by victims, and recommend appropriate compensation based on documented evidence.
Officials involved in the process noted that protests often occur in highly charged political environments.
Therefore, making it easy for competing narratives to emerge.
However, they stressed that the panel must operate independently and make decisions based on facts rather than political influence or public pressure.
Rising Debate Over Eligibility
The panel’s warning comes amid growing public debate over who should qualify for compensation and how funds should be distributed.
Some political actors have attempted to frame the exercise within broader political disputes surrounding the protests, prompting the panel to reaffirm its neutrality.
According to the panel, the compensation framework is meant to acknowledge the suffering experienced by victims and provide financial support to help them recover.
This includes individuals who sustained injuries, families who lost relatives, and traders or property owners whose businesses were damaged during the unrest.
Call for Cooperation from Victims
Panel members have urged victims and their families to cooperate fully with the verification process by providing accurate information and supporting documentation.
This, they say, will help ensure that compensation reaches those who genuinely deserve it while preventing fraudulent claims that could compromise the integrity of the exercise.
Human rights groups have welcomed the establishment of the panel but have also called for transparency and accountability throughout the process. They argue that credible compensation mechanisms are essential for restoring public trust after periods of political unrest.
Keeping Victims at the Center
As the verification process continues, the panel has reiterated that the focus must remain on justice and relief for victims. Politicizing the exercise, members warned, would only delay support for those who have already suffered significant hardship.
