The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on Monday, April 15 addressed alleged threats and mistreatment against its National Vice Chairman and Kisii County Governor Simba Arati.
In a statement, the party issued clear demands, insisting on immediate action, accountability, and swift action against those responsible for perpetrating any illegal activities or threats against Arati.
“We demand that Hon. Arati be accorded maximum security as required by law and action taken against the perpetrators of the illegal plans and threats to his life,” read ODM Party statement.
The controversy erupted following claims that Arati was being harassed by government officials and police officers.
“The continued mistreatment and harassment of our National Vice Chairman and Governor of Kisii County by officers of the National Government and the Police has come to our attention,” the statement notes further.
Therefore, the Raila Odinga-led party expressed deep concern over the silence by the government on the matter, calling it regrettable and demanding immediate action.
“It is regrettable that the government is quiet on this whole matter,” stated ODM.
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Leaked Telephone Conversation
Recent revelation of a recorded telephone conversation involving a senior police officer from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has intensified the gravity of the situation.
The leaked conversation, circulating widely in the media, allegedly contains discussions pertaining to illegal plans and threats to Honorable Arati’s life.
In light of these developments, the ODM party has called for decisive measures to ensure the safety and security of the governor.
They assert that he should be accorded maximum security as mandated by law.
Additionally, the leaked audio clip circulating on social media ignited fresh political tensions in Kisii County.
In the five-minute recording, directives are allegedly issued regarding the handling of Governor Simba Arati and some of his associates.
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Concerns About Potential Threats to Allies
According to reports, the voice in the audio clip talks about a plan by the police to “take charge” of the political situation in Kisii, raising concerns about potential threats to Governor Arati and his allies.
Also, the audio emerges at a time when the state has requested to search the homes of 14 individuals purportedly associated with Governor Arati.
The Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has cited intelligence reports suggesting that these individuals possess illegal weapons linked to criminal activities in Kisii County.
DPP claims that these alleged activities pose a significant threat to public safety, further exacerbating tensions in the region.
