Raila differs with AG over torture victims' award

By Peter Opiyo

Prime Minister Raila Odinga has differed with Attorney General Amos Wako on plans to appeal against the award of Sh40 million to Nyayo House torture survivors.

The PM, who hosted some of the torture victims at his Karen home, said the Sh40 million awarded as compensation was just a token.

"It is unfortunate that the AG, without consultation, made such statements," said the PM.

There are similar torture cases in court, but Raila said the Government was keen to settle them out of court.

"We will talk to the AG to withdraw some of the cases so that we have out of court settlement," said the PM.

Last week, the High Court ordered the Government to pay Sh40 million to 21 victims tortured by State security agents about 20 years ago.

Lawyer speaks

Lawyer Rumba Kinuthia, who represented the survivors in Court, also criticised the AG for seeking an appeal against the order.

"The AG does not believe these people were tortured and incarcerated, he should seek out of court settlement rather than wait for court orders," said Mr Kinuthia.

Lands Minister James Orengo and the PM’s wife Ida said the Proposed Constitution would herald a new beginning and ensure human rights are protected.

"We have an opportunity to get a new constitution that will change that kind of life. We must have the current constitution changed and have a new life," said Ida.

Raila was confident the Proposed Constitution would be endorsed at the August 4 plebiscite, saying it accords protection to human rights, which can only be amended through a referendum, not Parliament.

The PM, who underwent minor head surgery last month, said he was recovering fast, but doctors had asked him to stay indoors for days.