Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has distanced himself from the controversial River Yala killings, saying investigations into the matter began while he was still in office and urging authorities to pursue a public inquest.
Speaking in an interview aired by Citizen TV on Tuesday, Matiang’i addressed the issue publicly for the first time, following repeated claims linking him to the unresolved cases.
The killings, widely reported in 2021, involved at least 36 bodies found dumped in the River Yala, according to the human rights group International Justice Mission.
The gruesome discoveries raised national concern, with many questioning the government's role and response.
"When the reports came out in 2021, we asked the Inspector General of Police, Hilary Mutyambai, to explain what was happening," Matiang’i said.
"We also asked the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to visit the scene and investigate."
According to Matiang’i, a police file was opened and investigations had begun before his exit from government.
He stressed that while he was part of the National Security Council, he did not interfere in police investigations.
"The file was not closed. We demanded an inquest. The DCI team was on the ground, and we wanted families of the victims to come forward so we could get statements and build proper cases," he added.
Matiang’i distanced himself from any cover-up claims, stating that he had no direct involvement in the investigation, which falls under the purview of independent police authorities.
"As a minister, I would have nothing to do with the file. The police service is independent. I did not leave the government with the file, and I do not control it," he said.
The former CS also criticised what he called political attacks aimed at him, saying the issue is often brought up for convenience when he enters the public eye.
"If I were responsible for a crime committed by a police officer, then I should also be blamed for every road accident or robbery that happened when I was minister. That’s not how it works," he said.
Matiang’i called for a public inquest to ensure transparency and accountability.
"I’m ready to appear before a judge or magistrate and give my account. Let everyone who played a role in the security sector at the time also do the same," he said.
So far, no one has been held responsible, and investigations appear to have stalled.
