This archive report was first published on 23 July 2019.
October 20th, 2017, marked a concerning day for Kenyan citizens as Acting Interior Security cabinet secretary Fred Matiang'i made a series of statements that raised eyebrows. Speaking at a Jubilee rally in Etago, South Mugirango, Matiang'i referred to himself as “Enkororo” in his vernacular Ekegusii language, prompting the Kisii nation to vote for their preferred presidential candidate on October 26, 2017.
The minister's declaration of the said day as a national holiday to give citizens ample time to vote has sparked concerns about his intentions. The Chinkororo, a group of Kisii warriors, was linked to Kisii politician Simeon Nyachae, a former finance minister. The group's duty was to fight off any neighbors who threatened the security of the Kisii borders and inhabitants. Although the group has been outlawed by the government, Matiang'i's statement seems to hint at the possibility of its revival.
The rally was attended by Deputy President William Ruto, Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi, and Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen. Matiang'i's utterances raise concerns about his partisan nature and selected bias to protect government interests. The conclusion is that, under current circumstances, the police seem to be for the government rather than an independent institution meant to protect all Kenyan citizens indiscriminately.
Human rights activists, including Boniface Mwangi, took to the streets in Nairobi to defend the rights of protestors. However, their peaceful demonstration was disrupted by police who fired teargas canisters at the protestors. One officer even fired a canister at close range at Boniface Mwangi, resulting in an injury.
Meanwhile, in Kisumu, Fred Outa and Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga have been missing since Wednesday. The two leaders' phones have been switched off, and their whereabouts are unknown. The two leaders had earlier stated that due to the withdrawal of NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga from the race, nobody should offer any services to the electoral body or take up any jobs with them until the body undergoes the demanded reforms.
