Kisii Governor Simba Arati was again on the spot after suspected police officers raided his private office in Nairobi on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
In a press conference, Arati said his security officers alerted him at around 2pm that five officers broke into his offices.
“I was at the Council of Governors meeting where we were discussing the issue of healthcare workers’ strike. My guard informed me that there were five police officers who had come to my office. They had an argument with my watchman, and they threatened to break into my office,” said Arati.
He said the officers were already within his compound when he arrived with his team of lawyers.
The Kisii boss revealed that one of the officers was in the vehicle, another one was seated next to the fishpond while the other three were behind the offices.
When Simba Arati asked them the reason for their visit, the officers replied that they were not aware it was his compound, and they were just checking it.
“I came in with my counsel Governor James Orengo to find out why they were in my compound, and they said they didn’t know it was my compound and they were just passing by. I have come to realize they were police officers with radio calls and guns,” he said.
Govenor’s Plea
The governor went ahead to accuse his political rivals and the police of trying to sabotage his administration.
“Of course it is intimidation. I want to say I will not be intimidated or scared. Do you walk into any compound in Nairobi and force yourself as they claim they were just on patrol?” he said.
“If you think I have done anything wrong, kindly call me at your offices and get the answers you want from my end. If you are not satisfied, take me to court. That is the easiest way.”
Also Read: ODM Issues Fresh Demands Amid Alleged Threats Against Simba Arati
Simba Arati Life in Danger
The raid came after Arati claimed that his life was in danger and recorded a statement at the DCI offices on April 15.
His lawyers, Governor Orengo, and senior counsel Otiende Amolo claimed that the police were working with a top politician from Kisii to plant illegal firearms in his homes in Kisii and Nairobi to prompt his arrest.
“We have given a copy of that clip to the police where a CCIO in Kisii is recorded giving instructions and insights into how guns, firearms and other things are going to be planted on Governor Arati,” said Orengo.
Orengo said the part of the plot was to make sure that Arati is not given the space to undertake his duties as Governor of Kisii.
Also Read: Simba Arati Picks Another Deputy After Impeachment Storm
Arati-Osoro Political Rivalry
Kisii politics has hit the headline several times since Arati took over the governor’s offices.
Arati clashed with National Assembly Majority Party Whip Sylvanus Osoro together with Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu.
At least four people sustained bullet injuries when Arati’s supporters clashed with those of Osoro in early January.
Arati has constantly accused the national government of using the police and local Kenya Kwanza politicians to suppress his government.
