The family of the late Chris Msando, who was the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) manager is marking six years since he was found dead on July 29, 2017.
According to the family of the former Information and Communication Technology, who was murdered a few days before the 2017 elections, they cherished moments they shared together.
In a paid for publication in the dailies, under obituary section, Msando was honoured for being a special gem in their hearts.
“Your presence may no longer be with us, but your love and the beautiful memories you left behind continue to shine brightly in our hearts,” read part of the anniversary message.
Further, the family said Msando’s spirit lives and is guiding and comforting them in their daily lives.
“We miss you dearly and honor your legacy by embracing the values and lessons you taught us.
May you rest in eternal peace, knowing that you are forever loved and never forgotten,” said the family.
Msando Death
Msando was found dead in Kikuyu town after reportedly going missing for days.
The reports showed he had been strangled and there were incisions in his arm, a sign that his tormentors tortured him before the murder.
Msando was last captured driving his car towards the estate before someone else drove it out and eventually to Thika Road, where it was finally discovered two days later.
He was last seen with a woman whose body was also found dumped about a kilometre from where Msando’s body was discovered.
The Post-mortem examination on the woman’s body confirmed she was strangled to death and some of her teeth knocked off. .
Msando had reported to the Central Police Station about threats to his life.
Also Read: Wajackoyah Says He Will Execute Msando’s Killers If Elected
Msandos’ Role in 2017 Elections
Msando was in charge of the integrated management system for voter registration, identification, and transmission of the election results.
The ICT Manager had made frequent media appearances to assure voters that new technology to be deployed in the 2017 general elections was able to withstand any form of rigging.
“The only issue is who killed him and why … I demand from the government that they provide security for all members of the IEBC for them to give Kenya free and fair elections,” said former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati.
Raila’s Comments on Msando’s Death
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who was in the presidential race in 2017 said Msando was murdered for refusing to reveal the password that would be used to rig the elections.
The then National Super Alliance flag bearer said there was no need to carry out investigations into the death of Msando sine the killers were well known.
“Msando died a hero, he was killed because he refused to reveal the passwords, but his death will be in vain,” said Raila.
Also Read: Why Impunity Thrives In Kenya
President Uhuru’s Comment
President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned with the family of Msando saying he was shocked and saddened by his death.
In his condolence note, Uhuru asked the public to stop speculations and let the investigation agencies perform their duty.
“Let our prayer direct our action. Chris was a man who gave himself to the service of his country, and its institutions.
It is appropriate, then, to let those institutions handle the investigation, the better to bring the doers of this foul deed to justice.
Careless speculation in this time of grief only makes the work of investigators harder, and it only adds to the pain of those who loved him,” said Uhuru.
In June 2018, President Uhuru appointed Eva Buyu, Msando’s wife as a member of the Export Processing Zones Authority for a period of three years.
