Gachagua condemns murder of activist Richard Otieno, demands justice

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has demanded justice as he condemned the brutal murder of activist Richard Otieno, popularly known as the “Molo President.”

Taking to social media platform X, Gachagua described the incident as a shocking testament to the rising levels of political intolerance and repression in Kenya.

Otieno was attacked and killed by unknown assailants on Saturday night, just 200 meters from the Elburgon Police Station, causing widespread outrage among residents.

The former expressed deep concern over the state of security and civil liberties in the country.

“The level of political intolerance and repression in our country is reaching disproportionate and alarming levels,” he wrote.

He described Otieno’s murder as part of a “pathetic and archaic strategy to silence government critics” amid a growing climate of fear.

Hundreds of residents took to the streets of Elburgon on Sunday, storming the local police station and demanding answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Otieno’s death.

The protests disrupted local businesses as community members expressed their anger and frustration, questioning the police’s failure to protect one of their own. 

Otieno, a known human rights defender, had been a vocal critic of the government and the area MP, Kimani Kuria, holding them accountable for unfulfilled campaign promises. His activism included participation in the recent Gen Z protests in Molo, where he was arrested for leading demonstrations advocating for systemic change.

Gachagua extended his condolences to Otieno’s family and the people of Molo.

“As we mourn this promising young man, we call for justice. His killers must be brought to book, come what may,” he emphasized, calling the government of Kenya to take immediate action and bring those responsible to justice.

“May God rest the soul of Raymond Otieno in eternal peace and comfort his family.”