The political landscape in Kenya has been rattled by the alleged abduction of Juja Member of Parliament (MP), George Koimburi. The MP was reportedly accosted by unidentified men moments after attending a church service on Sunday, sparking widespread concern and speculation.
A Chilling Account of Events
Eyewitnesses, including the MP’s wife, Ann Koimburi, revealed that two men, disguised as worshippers, approached the legislator as he interacted with well-wishers outside the church. According to Mrs. Koimburi, the men suddenly overpowered her husband and forced him into a waiting Subaru Forester with altered number plates, possibly designed to conceal the vehicle’s identity.
“We had just left church, and as is customary, Mheshimiwa was greeting people. They suddenly turned on him, forcing him into the car,” Mrs. Koimburi recounted. Her attempt to intervene was met with physical resistance, leaving her injured. “They started hitting me, and I felt like my arm was broken. I had no choice but to let go of my husband.”
DCI Denies Involvement
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has publicly distanced itself from the incident, stating that it was not involved in the alleged abduction. However, the agency confirmed that Koimburi was a person of interest in ongoing investigations related to alleged land fraud and the misuse of Constituency Development Funds (CDF).
Mrs. Koimburi criticized the authorities, citing previous instances where her husband was detained, his phone and vehicle confiscated, and no communication provided about his status. “The last time they took him, they seized his phone and car, leaving us in the dark. Now, this happens again. They are supposed to protect us, not cause us harm,” she lamented.
Political Tensions Escalate
The incident involving Koimburi coincides with broader political unrest in Kenya. On the same weekend, police dispersed supporters of the Democratic Change Party (DCP) during planned rallies in Kakamega. The party’s Deputy Leader, Cleophas Malala, had his vehicle impounded for alleged dangerous driving.
DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua decried the actions, accusing the government of targeting opposition leaders in a systematic campaign of political persecution. “This is not the first time. From Mithika Linturi in Meru to Ndindi Nyoro in Murang’a, opposition leaders are being harassed. This pattern must stop,” Gachagua asserted.
He further criticized President William Ruto’s administration, calling for investigations into alleged government programs that he claimed provided inadequate support to citizens. “What kind of empowerment is it when women sit under the scorching sun all day to receive just 500 shillings? This must be addressed,” he added.
A Nation Awaits Answers
As investigations into the abduction continue, Kenyans are left questioning the safety of their leaders and the rising political tensions in the country. The incident underscores the urgent need for accountability and transparency in addressing such high-profile cases.
