
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has voiced support for an independent investigation into alleged abductions and extrajudicial killings, asserting that Kenya is not a “banana republic.”
He commended his allies for standing firm against what he described as regressive efforts to suppress freedom of speech and undermine the country’s democracy.
In his statement, Gachagua emphasized that only a transparent and open inquiry could reveal the full extent of the abductions and extrajudicial killings. “An open investigation will provide a clear and transparent forum for the world to witness the scale of abductions meant to silence independent voices,” Gachagua remarked.
The former DP highlighted that the allegations of abductions and extrajudicial killings are of great concern both to Kenyans and the international community. “I am proud that some leaders are confronting these attempts to dismiss the issue,” he said.
Gachagua called for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the human rights violations. “We must thoroughly investigate these violations, identify and hold accountable those responsible for the abductions and extrajudicial killings, and ensure such atrocities never happen again,” he stated.
He urged Kenyans of goodwill to support the call for a commission of inquiry, noting that it would provide justice for the victims and their families. Gachagua also suggested that families who have lost loved ones to extrajudicial killings should be offered counseling.
“We must resist attempts to instill fear in our youth and their families to prevent them from speaking out,” Gachagua added. “I continue to applaud those Kenyans who refuse to be intimidated, coerced, bought off, or silenced.”
Gachagua reaffirmed that freedom of expression is a fundamental right under the Kenyan Constitution, and anyone aggrieved by those exercising it should seek redress through the law.
