Arrest killers of businessman Jacob Juma, Western leaders tell government

From left Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, Sabatia Mp Alfred Agoi, Lugari Mp Ayub Savula, former Lugari Mp Cyrus Jirongo, Musalia Mudavadi and Vihiga Senator George Khaniri during funeral service of former Transport Communication Assistant Minister the late Seth Lugonzo. Leaders who attended the burial service at Lirhembe primary in Ikolomani, Kakamega County on May 7, 2016, condemned jubilee government for not providing security to slain businessman Jacob Juma who had battled VIPs on social media. [Photo:BENJAMIN SAKWA /Standard]

Leaders from Western Kenya have termed the killing of businessman Jacob Juma a return to Kenya's dark past.

Led by Amani National Congress (ANC) party leader Musalia Mudavadi, the leaders condemned Juma’s killing, saying the government has a responsibility to ensure all Kenyans are safe.

Mudavadi asked the government to investigate the killing and prosecute the masterminds. “We do not want stories, we want actions. Those who killed Juma should be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

The leaders spoke yesterday during the burial of former Ikolomani MP Seth Lugonzo at Lirhembe in Kakamega County.

The burial was attended by Senators Bonny Khalwale (Kakamega) and George Khaniri (Vihiga), MPs Alfred Agoi, Emmanuel Wangwe, Dan Wanyama and Ayub Savula, and United Democratic Party (UDP) party leader Cyrus Jirongo.

Others were Kakamega County Chair of National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) Beneah Salala and Julius Abungana of the Believers Ministries.

Salala, who is the Mumias Diocese ACK Bishop, said Juma’s death was a sign that assassinations of high profile individuals was returning.

“He was not only a dedicated businessman but a man who spoke his mind. We urge the State to carry out a conclusive inquest to reveal his killers. A speedy inquest is what we demand from the State,” said Salalah, who said he is Juma’s first cousin.

Mr Jirongo linked the death of Juma to his numerous social media posts in which he had claimed his life was in danger over his firm stand against corruption.

Dr Khalwale asked the police to speed up investigations to ensure justice is done.

“We want thorough investigations conducted. Leaders mentioned by Juma in his social media posts about his death should record a statement with the police,” he added.