Security agencies should ignore political threats

I have been following keenly the unfolding political discourses in our country, and I can say without fear of contradiction that a dangerous precedent has been set. Well-connected politicians have been taking advantage of their connections and the split in the ruling Jubilee coalition to undermine the work of State agencies charged with investigation.

Being masters of confusion, propaganda and deceit, those associated with economic crimes and killing of peasants are using tricks to sabotage investigations and evade justice. So far, we have two political groupings namely Tangatanga and Kieleweke.

The former has created perceptions that its members are being targeted for political reasons. To me, this is a lie that has been repeated so many times that a number of people now believe it. A few days ago, one of their members (read Kiambu Governor Ferdinard Waititu) appeared before Senate Public Accounts and Investment Committee. Asked to respond to audit queries, which included how he spent Sh1 billion set aside for alcohol rehabilitation programmee, he opted to play politics. “This is a conspiracy to undermine my administration and my senator Kimani Wamatangi is behind it," he charged.

Two days later, he joined Deputy President William Ruto during a church service in Komothai, Kiambu. Here he lamented that he was being targeted because of supporting the DP’s presidential bid. How are audit queries related to Ruto’s presidential bid? The people of Kiambu would be the biggest losers if it turns out these funds were looted.

At this juncture, allow me to turn to senseless killings of poor innocent Kenyans in Matungu. The latest victim is a Grade One pupil who was abducted while playing with other children and later his lifeless body was found dumped.

Media reports indicate that at least 21 people have been killed by machete-wielding gangs in the past one month. The gangs do not steal anything from their victims. These killings drew the attention of President Uhuru Kenyatta after it emerged the Kakamega County security officials were overwhelmed.

Uhuru dispatched Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i to assess the situation and take immediate action. The CS confirmed this when he addressed the residents. In Matungu, the CS vowed that no one would be spared even the politicians "no matter your status". The following day, a number of the local politicians were arrested and locked up in police cells. Again, this matter would be politicised. Youth should stop taking handouts and supporting leaders blindly. Political leadership is about our lives. 

Joseph Mutua, Nairobi