Why Betty quit as vice-chair

Ms Betty Murungi on Monday resigned from the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission. She spoke to Bernard Namunane about her decision to quit.

Q: What prompted you to resign from the TJRC?

A: My position had become untenable for a variety of reasons. It is important for the TJRC to gain the trust of the people. It was clear this was not going to be possible. It also doesn’t have the independence it requires because the Ministry of Justice exercises a lot of control. There is also the credibility of the chairman.

Q: So, was the chairman the only reason you quit?

A: The chairperson is not the only reason for my resignation. There are more reasons. It is evident the forces of impunity are fighting the TJRC. I don’t want to be part of a commission that will white-wash and give excuses for past injustices. If it does so, it would justify the detentions without trial and tortures. I will not be part of that charade.

Q: Is the credibility of TJRC at stake?

A: The serving commissioners are men and women of honour. They have held high positions in their careers. One of them is a former top United Nations officer and there is a former judge.

They have served extremely well in their earlier careers.

If the right atmosphere is created, they will do a good job. If the commission also gets financial independence and recruits enough staff.

Q: Can you elaborate on interference from the ministry?

A: Can you ask the ministry why the chief executive officer has no authority to incur expenditure? Everything is authorised by the ministry.

Q: If there is no change at the helm of the TJRC, will its final report be credible?

A: No. That is highly speculative. The TJRC has until November next year.

Q: What is the way forward for the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission?

A: The TJRC needs to be well-funded. It also needs financial independence.