The legal representatives of Kisii Governor Simba Arati have alleged that the governor’s life is at risk. This assertion follows the circulation of a viral audio clip on social media purportedly featuring a senior officer in Kisii County outlining plans to apprehend the governor.
During a press conference at the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road, Siaya Governor James Orengo disclosed that they had formally lodged a complaint regarding this matter. Governor Orengo emphasized that the leaked audio, allegedly attributed to the Kisii County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO), suggests a threat to Governor Arati’s life, necessitating immediate intervention by law enforcement.
Governor Orengo expressed concerns about the challenging environment in which Governor Arati has been operating, citing instances of harassment, intimidation, and persecution directed towards him. He highlighted that the leaked audio serves as crucial evidence submitted to the police for further investigation.
According to Governor Orengo, the underlying motive appears to obstruct Governor Arati from fulfilling his obligations to the citizens effectively. He underscored the need for swift action by the authorities to address these threats and safeguard the governor’s security.
Governor Orengo implicated the Kenya Kwanza administration for allegedly leveraging state resources to impede Governor Arati’s governance efforts since his election under the ODM ticket. He hinted at potential repercussions if official measures fail to resolve the situation, suggesting that the public may resort to alternative interventions.
Renowned Senior Counsel and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo underscored the urgency of police intervention, emphasizing the precarious situation that Governor Arati faces in Kisii. He emphasized the unprecedented nature of Governor Arati’s complaint against the DCI, urging prompt and decisive action to avert potential risks.
Furthermore, legal counsel Ndegwa Njiru highlighted the adverse impact of these threats on Governor Arati’s ability to discharge his duties effectively. Njiru expressed concerns about the hostile environment created by those tasked with ensuring the governor’s safety, impeding his operational capacity.
In a formal communication to the DCI, Governor Arati detailed instances where the CCIO in Kisii purportedly conspired with other officers to plant weapons at his residence and the homes of individuals associated with him. The governor raised alarm over potential weapon planting schemes orchestrated to incriminate him and his associates, urging swift investigative measures to address these serious allegations.
Governor Arati also stressed the imperative of ensuring the safety and security of his constituents, urging the authorities to expedite the investigation process to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the well-being of the community.