This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
On July 5, 2019, a group of women MPs visited Garissa County and expressed their concerns about the police's handling of suspects. Led by Nakuru Senator Susan Kihika and Kandara MP Alice Wahome, the 30-strong delegation accused the police of misusing their power.
The women MPs claimed that the police were holding suspects for extended periods without conducting proper investigations. They argued that this was a form of harassment and intimidation, and that the police should take suspects to court with solid evidence.
Their comments came after the arrest of Dennis Itumbi, the Secretary of Digital Media at State House, who was detained for five days to allow investigators to conclude their probe into the alleged plot to assassinate Deputy President William Ruto.
Senator Kihika stated, 'It is wrong to arrest Kenyans and request for a week or two to conduct investigations. Proper investigations should be conducted first before anyone is apprehended. There should be solid evidence.'
MP Wahome added, 'What Kenyans want to know is who uttered words that could be seen as a plot to eliminate DP Ruto. Arresting Itumbi is a diversionary tactic.'
The women MPs also expressed their support for President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy, and declared that the region was firmly behind them.
Other legislators present at the meeting included Gladys Shollei, Jane Kihara, Faith Gitau, and Sophia Abdi, among others.
