Opposition Leader Condemns Abductions, Defends Lamu Port Investments and Samburu Residents

Story by Violet Kerubo

Opposition leaders led by H.E Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka today at Life care hospital in mlolongo, where they visited a young activist Collins Otieno who was abducted and toured, have strongly criticized the government over what he described as alleged abductions, unlawful detentions and the use of force against Kenyan citizens.
Kalonzo Musyoka said Kenyans are increasingly concerned about the rule of law and called for an end to what he termed an abuse of state power.
He also accused the administration for detaining people without trial and alleged that some citizens had been abducted.
He urged the government to respect constitutional rights and allow Kenyans to live without fear of arbitrary arrest or detention.
He also addressed the controversy surrounding business investments in Kenya, particularly the role of prominent African investor Dangote.
The politician said Kenya should remain open to foreign direct investment, arguing that investors such as Dangote should be welcomed because of their contribution to the country’s economic development.
He recalled the establishment of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport Corridor, commonly known as LAPSSET, saying the project was initiated during the administration of former President Mwai Kibaki with the involvement of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and himself.
According to the politician, the LAPSSET vision was intended to transform Lamu into a major regional transport and economic hub.
Kalonzo Musyoka further claimed that previous disagreements surrounding investment projects, including proposals involving Dangote, had contributed to delays in implementing some major infrastructure projects.
He also raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding the development of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, referring to previous controversies over proposed infrastructure contracts.
He alleged that some financial arrangements connected to the projects remained unresolved and called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
Turning to the situation in Samburu County, he condemned what he described as attacks against local residents and the alleged killing of livestock.
He said many families in Samburu depend heavily on livestock for their livelihoods and that the loss of animals could have serious economic consequences for affected households.
Kalonzo Musyoka called for investigations into the alleged incidents and demanded adequate compensation for residents who may have suffered losses.
The opposition leader said security agencies should follow the law when pursuing suspected criminals and should distinguish between suspects and innocent members of the public.
He particularly criticized the alleged use of armed groups against communities, saying law enforcement agencies should be responsible for investigating and dealing with criminal activity.

He said referring to Ruto as a brother should not be interpreted as political support or complicity, arguing that political differences should not prevent Kenyans from recognizing their common national identity.
At the same time, he maintained that the administration must be held accountable for actions that he believes have harmed Kenyans.
He recalled previous political moments, including the handshake between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the late Raila Odinga, saying he had maintained his own political position even during periods of political realignment.
The opposition leader said his priority remained the interests of ordinary Kenyans, particularly families affected by economic hardship, insecurity and what he described as excessive use of state power.
He called for a new political direction in which citizens can live without fear of arbitrary detention and where constitutional rights are respected.
On Lamu Port, he expressed optimism that the facility would continue developing and eventually fulfill the vision behind LAPSSET.
He said stronger investment in Lamu could help create employment, expand trade and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional economic hub.
The politician concluded by reaffirming his commitment to standing with Kenyans, saying he would continue advocating for citizens affected by what he described as unlawful actions and economic hardships.
The allegations and claims made in the statement would require independent verification from the government, security agencies and other relevant authorities.