Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Friday, April 10, cautioned Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo that political power is temporary, amid claims linking him to the attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
Speaking at a United Opposition rally in Masinga, Matiang’i said several former Interior PSs once wielded significant influence but later returned to ordinary life after leaving office.
He drew comparisons with former Interior PS Hezekiah Oyugi, who served during President Daniel Moi’s era, alleging that he had been used to suppress dissent before eventually falling out of favour.
Fred Matiang’i Speaks on Power and Accountability Amid Omollo–Osotsi Controversy. Photo:Courtesy.
Matiang’i warned against the use of violence or intimidation against individuals with differing political views, emphasizing that those in power should exercise restraint and accountability.
“There used to be a PS of Interior known as Hezekiah Oyugi, who was as short as him. But today, he is no longer with us. The path is the same. Don’t think that because you have the power, you will use goons to attack people who do not share the same beliefs or political views as you,” Matiang’i noted.
The former CS warned that the continued use of hired groups to settle political disputes could push the country toward instability.
He questioned the security of ordinary citizens, noting that if a leader with state protection could be attacked in broad daylight, it raised serious concerns about public safety.
Matiang’i added that the United Opposition would escalate the matter to international bodies, alleging a deliberate attempt by the Kenya Kwanza administration to fuel disorder in the country.
Senator Godfrey Osotsi sustained serious injuries following the attack by armed goons and was subsequently airlifted to Nairobi for specialized medical treatment.
So far, three suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.
