Governor James Orengo has alleged that Bunge La Mwananchi member Evance Kawala, popularly known as Kidero Jasuba, was abducted on the night of Tuesday, May 26, in what he described as a worrying trend targeting government critics.
In a statement issued late Tuesday night, Orengo claimed that Kawala was allegedly targeted because of his outspoken criticism of the current administration and his activism at the Jacaranda Bunge La Mwananchi forums, which are known for hosting public discussions on governance and national issues.
The county boss condemned the alleged incident, saying it reflected increasing intolerance toward dissenting voices and individuals who openly challenge those in power.
James Orengo alleges abduction of Bunge La Mwananchi activist Kidero Jasuba. Photo: Courtesy.
He maintained that suppressing critics would not silence public resistance or stop citizens from expressing their frustrations over governance matters.
Orengo further called for Kawala’s immediate and unconditional release, while assuring members of Bunge La Mwananchi that efforts were ongoing to establish his whereabouts and follow up on the matter to its conclusion.
The claims come weeks after the alleged abduction of Stanley Kimure, an aide to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
According to lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, Kimure was reportedly seized near Rironi by individuals believed to be police officers driving a Subaru Forester before later being traced to Kajiado approximately 16 hours later.
Njiru said Kimure was subsequently presented before the Kajiado Law Courts by officers attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
The advocate further alleged that investigators were attempting to pressure Kimure into linking Gachagua to claims involving illegal possession of weapons, tear gas canisters, and drugs.
The recent allegations have once again sparked debate around claims of enforced disappearances, political intimidation, and the treatment of government critics in the country.
