A Kenyan court on Monday directed the government to pay 10 million Kenyan Shilling (roughly Rs. 21.7 million) as compensation to the family of slain Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif after finding his shooting ‘arbitrary and unconstitutional.’
Sharif, a prominent TV anchor, was shot dead by Kenyan police on Oct. 23, 2022 after he fled to the country following alleged threats of arrest and harassment by authorities in Pakistan. At the time, police claimed he was a victim of “mistaken identity” and was shot dead in error.
The Kenyan High Court, however, rubbished this defense, ruling Sharif’s shooting was “arbitrary and unconstitutional.” Justice Stella Mutuku said the shooting had violated the journalist’s “right to life, right to equal benefit and protection of the law and right dignity, among others,” reported local media. It ordered the government to pay the family compensation for the loss of life but suspended the order for 30 days to allow the government the right to appeal the decision.
“In view of the analysis above, I find that the respondents, jointly and severally through their actions violated the rights of the petitioners,” observed the judge, directing authorities to ensure Sharif’s family was informed about the status of investigations. She also ordered appropriate action against police officers found culpable for the killing of Sharif.
Filed by Sharif’s widow, Javeria Sidique, the petition before the Kenyan High Court had sued Kenyan officials for allegedly delaying investigations into the shooting and not informing the family of their progress. Among the officials sued were Attorney General Justin Muturi, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).