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A Kenyan diplomat is allegedly under siege following accusations of alleged extortion, physical abuse, and intimidation against a domestic worker. Reports allege that the envoy coerced the staffer to remit part of their salary to the tune of Sh2 million to certain accounts, with threats of dismissal and deportation. The staffer also purportedly claimed they were physically abused and threatened. On the other hand, however, the claims are heavily linked to a plot to attain asylum in the host country. It is only responsible for the line ministry to give a clarification on the matter and protect Kenya’s image, which has recently been heavily dented in regards to human rights violations.
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In Kenya’s political history, there have always been countless “political orphans”, who are born out of political deals. And often, these individuals — whether political allies, party members or aides — are left with an egg on the face when their bosses make the rapprochement with the very political enemies they were attacking and insulting. That is the case with one of the vocal supporters of a political figure who pulled a political; surprise this week. The aide’s attempt at justifying the move was met with political banter, with commentators urging him to accept that he is just a tool in a complex game of politics. It is the same case for a popular legislator, who was caught unaware by the developments.
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What could have happened between an influential political figure and one of the vocal allies who emerged as the fiercest defender? Political observers have not failed to notice the politician’s silence and detachment from his then ally. He has limited himself to his work, holding development meetings in his backyard. Notably, he recently said at a meeting that if one of the presidential candidates he so ferociously fought can manage to convince him and his supporters, then he wouldn’t mind backing the politico. Is it a case of letting everyone carry their own cross or some interests conflicted? Only time will tell.
