TJRC witnesses fear retaliation

By Karanja Njoroge

Witnesses to the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) want their safety assured through the Witness Protection Act.

According to the Centre for Conflict Resolution, most of witnesses who want to appear before the commission are apprehensive about their safety.

From a study the NGO conducted in Central Rift, witnesses feared retaliation from those mentioned.

"Eighty eight per cent of respondents said they were anxious to know whether they will be protected," NGO’s Programme Officer Daniel Ngetich told a media workshop in Nakuru.

The Centre for Conflict Resolution said it carried out the study as a way of sensitising the public about TJRC hearings, which kick off next year.

Mr Ngetich said most respondents were sceptical on whether the recommendations by the TJRC will be implemented.