Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has joined the call from his allies for the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry to investigate five key issues that are currently threatening the safety and democratic rights of Kenyans.
In a statement on Tuesday, January 7, Gachagua emphasized that the issue of abductions is of great concern to both Kenyans and the international community.
He expressed pride that some leaders are stepping forward to address the matter, particularly in the face of clear attempts by the state to downplay or dismiss the gravity of the issue.
“I therefore strongly associate myself with this call for an Independent Commission of Inquiry on the issue of abductions,” he said.
“We must get to the bottom of these gross human rights violations, identify and prosecute everyone involved in the abductions and extra-judicial killings, and ensure this will never happen again.”
Why Gachagua and Allies Want the Commission of Inquiry Formed
Gachagua alleged that abductions and extra-judicial killings that have been happening are clearly state sanctioned adding that a call to investigate them will provide and open and transparent forum.
“This call for an open process to investigate them will provide an open and transparent forum for the whole world to see the extent to which this regime is willing to go, to stifle independent voices that are brave enough to correct or criticise them, which is part and parcel of how a democracy works,” he added.
The legislators allied to Gachagua, led by Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, had earlier demanded the the formation of the commission to look into the alarming trend of abductions, politicization of the police, resurgence of criminal gangs, land grabbing, and state capture in Kenya.
According to the lawmakers, these abductions have escalated to alarming levels, raising serious concerns from Kenyans, religious organizations, and international bodies.
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Key Issues to Be Looked Into
The legislators argue that these developments are endangering the safety, dignity, and fundamental rights of Kenyan citizens.
These heinous acts, according to the allies have also resulted in numerous victims suffering from death, physical harm, psychological trauma, or enforced silence.
“In light of these grave issues, we hereby call for the establishment of an Independent Public Commission of Inquiry to investigate the alarming series of abductions targeting individuals perceived as critics of President Ruto and the executive,” read the statement in part.
“These abductions represent a systematic attempt to silence dissent and instil fear among the populace.”
Politicization of Police
In addition to investigating abductions and criminal activities, the lawmakers are calling for the commission to examine the politicization within Kenya’s police forces and other independent institutions.
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They seek a thorough investigation into instances where security forces have been manipulated for political gain or used to intimidate and persecute dissenting voices.
A significant concern highlighted in the lawmakers’ call is the growing political violence, particularly involving Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his supporters.
They urge the commission to look into organized criminal attacks against Gachagua, including the chaotic events at the Limuru funeral in Kiambu County and the teargas incident at Shamata in Nyandarua County on December 28, 2024.
The lawmakers also want the commission to assess the resurgence of criminal gangs that are allegedly being sponsored by the state, including the notorious Mungiki.
These gangs have been terrorizing citizens and government critics, creating an atmosphere of fear and lawlessness.
Also Read: Gachagua Fires Back at Ichung’wah Over Abduction Claims
Land Grabbing and State Capture
Furthermore, the lawmakers are calling for the commission to address the issue of state capture, where government institutions and resources are exploited for personal or political gain.
They pointed out the awarding of government contracts to affiliates of the ruling elite and rampant land grabbing as evidence of widespread corruption and misuse of public trust.
“The commission must also investigate extensive land grabbing, which is taking place in areas such as Ngurunga Farm in Kiambu Constituency, Gikumari in Ruiru Constituency, Ndabibi in Naivasha Constituency, and at Nakuru Memorial Hospital,” the statement read.
“These acts of land theft, along with the misuse of public resources, threaten the integrity of our institutions and the welfare of the Kenyan people.”
Meanwhile, Gachagua’s allies have urged both the National Assembly and the Senate, as well as all county assemblies across the nation, to convene special sessions during the recess to discuss and conduct inquiries into these abductions and other pressing matters affecting our society.
They also emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive review of public safety measures and accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of all Kenyans.
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