Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has condemned the rising trend of weaponizing independent institutions in Kenya for political witch-hunting.
This is after police officers
and detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided the
residence of the Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya on Monday morning.
Onyonka termed the incident not only as uncalled for but an affront to the spirit of devolution and democratic accountability.
He described Natembeya as one who has never hesitated to stand with his people on the Nzoia and Mumias Sugar Factory scandals.
“Our country is slowly descending into a scenario where voices of opinion are silenced through unlawful arrests and intimidation,” Onyonka said.
There was chaos as angry residents confronted some of the officers.
During the raid, angry residents damaged several vehicles as a contingent of armed EACC and police officers raided Natembeya’s home.
The vehicles used by the officers were pelted with stones and tyres deflated as hundreds of residents stormed the home to protest against the raid at the home.
More than five cars were damaged during the chaos at the home.
Natembeya was not at the home during the raid, which started before 8 am, leading to a search that lasted over two hours.
EACC has since condemned the destruction of vehicles at Natembeya’s residence.
In a statement released on Monday, EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud noted that the offence is punishable by law.
“Unfortunately, during today's operation at Governor Natembeya's residence in Kitale, Commission vehicles were vandalised by a group of rowdy youths,” he said.
He reiterated that the “act of hooliganism is unacceptable and a direct affront to the rule of law”.
He affirmed that EACC is an independent constitutional body operating strictly within its mandate and will continue to discharge its duties with professionalism and integrity.
The raid comes barely a week after Natembeya led protests opposing the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company.
