Two Gusii politicians Thursday said the abductions and killings of Kenyans by intolerant state officials is severely denting Kenya’s international image.
Nyamira Senatorial hopeful, also Nairobi based lawyer, Morara Apiemi and Nyaribari Chache politician James Kenani separately weighed in asking the government to act “swiftly and decisively to safeguard the freedom of expression and ensure that all citizens”, including dissenting voices, are protected under the law.
“The murder and intimidation of bloggers is not only unconstitutional but a shameful stain on our conscience and democracy,” said Apiemi.
“The world is watching, and these actions are portraying Kenya as a country that silences free speech through violence and fear,” added Kenani while facing reporters at a Nairobi hotel.
For days, Kenyan activists have continued to flood Nairobi streets to agitate for justice in connection to the chilly killing inside a police cell of Homabay teacher cum blogger Albert Ojwang.
The protests have since forced out of office the country’s deputy police chief as investigations gather pace.
A musk vendor caught in the chaotic street protests is also fighting for his life in hospital after a rogue gun totting officer shot him in the head.
The police officers involved have since been taken into custody over the shooting.
The incident has already fueled more outrage
Apiemi said the slaughter of vocal online figures has already raised alarm among the international community.
“The health of a nation is measured by the level of its democracy and from where I sit we are quickly sliding off into the list of failed states,” stated Apiemi in his Nairobi office.
He questioned President William Ruto’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s democratic principles and human rights as enshrined in the constitution.
Separately, Kenani has asked the investigative agencies to expedite probes into such cases.
Those found culpable, he said, should be held accountable.
“Impunity must not be allowed to thrive. We cannot allow fear to define the digital space,” he added.
He further called on the youth to remain vocal but peaceful in expressing their views, while reminding the state of its constitutional duty to uphold justice and the rule of law.
Kenani was speaking to journalists at the Nairobi Club, in Nairobi.
The country has recently come under criticism following the string of reported abductions and attacks on bloggers who have been critical of state institutions and political leaders.
Rights defenders continue to demand for transparency and accountability in dealing with the cases.
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