Police question minister over Tana clashes

By Cyrus Ombati

Livestock Assistant Minister Dhadho Godhana has recorded a statement with the Criminal Investigations Department  over Tana River clashes that left more than 60 people dead.

The Galole MP arrived at CID headquarters in Nairobi for questioning on Thursday at 11 am accompanied by his lawyer and left at 3am.

CID director Francis Muhoro confirmed to the Standard that his officers interrogated the legislator.

“We are carrying out investigations into the clashes and the assistant minister is among those who have been mentioned. Several others including politicians will be questioned as we try to get the cause of the issue,” said Muhoro on the phone.

He said CID headquarters is complementing the Coast team that is investigating the clashes and have so far interviewed more than 10 people and charged others in court including two chiefs over the incident.

Addressing the press after being interrogated, Godhana maintained that acting Internal Security Minister Yusuf Haji should also be questioned.

The summoning of Godhana comes days after Haji ordered the CID to question him over the clashes.

But Godhana instead demanded that Haji also be investigated over the deaths saying the clashes pitting Pokomo and Orma communities in the area are political.