Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Molo-based activist Richard Otieno, who was hacked to death by unidentified attackers on Saturday night.
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Gachagua called for swift investigations to ensure the perpetrators of the heinous crime are apprehended and face the full force of the law.
Gachagua criticized the government for its silence on the tragic incident, urging it to take immediate and decisive action.
“The Government of Kenya cannot afford to remain silent or sit on the fence about this matter,” he stated firmly.
He mourned the activist’s death, describing Otieno as a promising young man and a passionate human rights advocate.
Gachagua further decried the increasing suppression of opposition voices in the country, claiming that Otieno’s murder reflects a troubling trend.
“As we grieve the loss of this brilliant young leader, who was a staunch defender of justice and human rights, we demand accountability.
His killers must be identified and brought to justice without fail,” he emphasized.
The former deputy president, who has been a vocal critic of the government, expressed concern over what he termed as growing political intolerance and repression.
He warned that the situation was escalating to alarming levels.
“The horrific and cold-blooded murder of Richard Otieno in Molo over the weekend is yet another tactic aimed at instilling fear among Kenyans.
It is a desperate and outdated strategy to silence critics after previous abduction attempts failed,” Gachagua lamented.
He questioned how Kenya, once considered a strong and promising nation, could descend into lawlessness.
“How has a great nation like Kenya reached a point where even children and women feel unsafe? Are we sliding into the chaos of a failed state?” he asked rhetorically.
Gachagua extended his condolences to Otieno’s family and the Molo community, commending the late activist’s bravery in standing for justice.
“To the family of Richard Otieno and the people of Molo, I stand with you during this painful and difficult time. My deepest sympathies are with you,” he wrote.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also criticized the government, accusing it of shielding the culprits behind the attack.
Owino suggested that the identity of Otieno’s killer was known and questioned the necessity of investigations.
“There is no need for the DCI to investigate the horrific murder of Richard Otieno from Molo because the perpetrator is well known,” Owino declared.
“The leader responsible for this young man’s death must be held accountable and charged for his actions,” he added.
Otieno, a human rights activist, was ambushed and attacked while walking home from a bar on Saturday night.
Witnesses reported that the assailants struck him on the back of the head with an axe, killing him instantly.
Calls for justice have continued to pour in, with many urging the government to ensure the safety of activists and critics.
Otieno’s tragic death has sparked outrage, with leaders and citizens demanding immediate action to curb the rising cases of violence against dissenting voices in Kenya.
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