Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has provided new insights into the arrest of activist and whistleblower Morara Kebaso, who was detained on Monday evening.
According to Omtatah, Kebaso was targeted by authorities after he published critical allegations regarding President William Ruto’s dealings with businessman DL Langat.
Kebaso was initially held at the Nairobi Area Police Headquarters before being moved to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) along Kiambu Road. However, after concerned citizens gathered outside the DCI offices demanding his release, his lawyer reported that he was transferred to an undisclosed location.
Omtatah, who led the protest at the DCI headquarters, criticized the use of police in what he described as a civil matter, asserting that Kebaso’s arrest was unjust and lacked due process.
“Morara has done nothing wrong to warrant police intervention,” the senator stated, underscoring that Kebaso stands by his published claims. “He even stated in police custody that he stands by what he wrote. If he maintains his stance, why can’t the police allow him to confront his accusers?” he added.
In a statement on X, Omtatah condemned the authorities for not releasing Kebaso or formally charging him, labeling their actions as a violation of human rights.
“It is distressing that abductions and arbitrary arrests persist in our country,” Omtatah said, noting that such actions undermine justice and democracy. He urged President Ruto to testify if any legal issues arise concerning him and DL Langat.
“Let William Ruto come forward as a witness for DL Langat, and let the matter be addressed in court,” Omtatah insisted.
Kebaso’s Controversial Allegations Against Ruto
Tensions escalated following a social media post by Kebaso, where he accused President Ruto of exploiting his relationship with DL Langat for financial gain. Kebaso claimed that Ruto allegedly solicited campaign funds from Langat, leading the businessman to take out significant loans with his properties as collateral. When Langat faced foreclosure, Ruto purportedly used his influence to undervalue the properties and acquire them at a lower price, thus betraying Langat’s trust.
“That is the kind of person we are dealing with. He has no friends,” Kebaso alleged in the post.
Omtatah and other activists argue that Kebaso’s arrest is an attempt to suppress dissent and restrict free speech.
Meanwhile, supporters of Kebaso, including Omtatah, continue to advocate for his immediate release, urging all concerned citizens to stand up for justice and accountability.
