Gachagua Backs Demands To Probe Abductions: The World Will Know About Ruto

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has thrown his weight behind lawmakers allied to him who at the same time called for the formation of a commission of inquiry to investigate the recent abductions allegedly committed by security agents.

In a statement on Tuesday, January 7, he appreciated the leaders who included Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa for continuously speaking out against the matter of abductions and extra-judicial killings, saying the matter has drawn great interest not just to Kenyans but to the whole world.

He hailed the leaders for also going beyond what he termed as clear attempts by the state to wish the issue away. "The abductions and extra-judicial killings that have been happening are clearly state-sanctioned," he slammed the government.

"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."

The MPs lamented over the laxity of the police in investigating the recent abductions which saw Kibet Bull and Billy Mwangi go missing for 15 days. Owing to the alleged involvement of security agencies in the abductions, Gachagua allies noted that the commission of inquiry would be the best way to go.

"I therefore strongly associate myself with this call for an Independent Commission of Inquiry on the issue of abductions. 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," Gachagua added.

The impeached second-in-command also urged Kenyans of goodwill to support processes that will ensure every victim of the abductions and their families, or families that have lost loved ones to extra-judicial killings, undergo counselling. "We must counter the efforts to instil fear in our young people and their families to discourage them from speaking truth to power," he continued.

The MPs termed the recent abductions of six young Kenyans, five who have since been found alive, as a systematic attempt to silence dissent and instil fear among the populace.

They termed the inquiry as important in that it would examine the politicization within police forces and other independent institutions. This includes investigating instances where security forces have been used for political gains or to intimidate and persecute dissenting voices.

"Finally, I continue to salute all those Kenyans who refuse to be intimidated, coerced, bought off or shut down. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right enshrined in our constitution and anyone who feels aggrieved by those exercising it must pursue the law, in seeking redress," he concluded.

On the other hand, the 25 lawmakers also demanded that Parliament convene a special sitting to discuss the abductions.