This archive report was first published on 24 November 2019.
November 24, 2019
Warrant Officer II (Rtd) Moses Amonde Oyugi was arrested and jailed for 12 years after the failed 1982 coup in Kenya. He was later released in 1986 after successfully appealing his conviction.
On August 1, 1982, Amonde was ordered by rebel Air Force soldiers to set up an emergency medical centre where the injured would be treated. He claims he was unaware of the coup and did not take part in it.
As the mutiny progressed, Amonde ferried injured soldiers to his makeshift clinic and referred critical cases to Kenyatta National Hospital. He was cornered by loyal forces while ferrying the injured soldiers and sought refuge at St John's Ambulance offices.
“As I approached the Government Printer's Office, the military ambulance was flagged down by heavily armed officers. I knew I was in grave danger and I quickly jumped out and sought refuge at St John's Ambulance offices,” Amonde recalled.
He was later charged with failure to suppress a mutiny and jailed at Kamiti Maximum Prison, where he met with Opposition leader Raila Odinga. Amonde is now demanding compensation from the State for wrongful arrest, torture, and detention.
“I am appealing to the government to conclude my case and pay me. I diligently worked for this country,” Amonde said.
