Providing generic answers to key questions about the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang has led to rejection of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen's explanations to Parliament.
CS Murkomen has now been summoned by the National Assembly to answer additional queries over his death, as well as facing questions on the brutality meted out to demonstrators by police on Tuesday.
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According to the Administration and Security Committee, the decision to place Mr Ojwang’ in a solitary cell, and whether this was consistent with legal and procedural provisions, is still under active investigation.
“The committee awaits the conclusion of the independent investigations to determine any lapses, misconduct or violations of Mr Ojwang’s rights while in committee,” reads the committee’s response.
On the justification of transferring Mr Ojwang from Homa Bay to Nairobi, the committee told the House that the move was necessitated by the nature of the alleged offence — cybercrime.
“We understand that such offences may have elements that transcend geographical boundaries, but it is imperative that such transfers comply with the principles of lawful procedures,” reads the committee’s report.
The Gabriel Tongoyo-led team, however, told MPs that the legality of Mr Ojwang’s transfer and whether it met both procedural and human rights standards is still under investigation.
On the question of actions taken against the officers who apprehended and transferred Mr Ojwang to Nairobi, the committee informed the House that so far, six police officers have been interdicted.
The answers to the questions asked were provided to the committee by CS Murkomen. However, all the responses were unanimously rejected by the House as ‘grossly inadequate’ and failing to answer basic questions.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
“I’m not satisfied with how this matter has been handled by the committee. I would be happy if the matter is handled exhaustively,” said Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara.
She said the committee failed to get answers on what warranted the transfer of Mr Ojwang from Homa Bay to Nairobi, contrary to section 49 of the Constitution.
She also pointed out that the committee failed to provide answers on the specific online post that led to his arrest.
On his part, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji said CS Murkomen's answers point to a form of conspiracy to conceal the truth.
“Statement is insufficient, looks like there is a lot of conspiracy in this case. There is a need for the National Assembly to go beyond Ipoa statements. We need to form a commission to investigate this matter and all others that have been mentioned,” Mr Mukunji said.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo termed the response as grossly inadequate and urged the Speaker to allow for the formation of an Ad hoc committee to not only to handle Mr Ojwang’s issue but also other police atrocities in the country.
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