Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the brutal murder of activist Richard Otieno, popularly known as the “Molo President,” calling it a grim reflection of rising political intolerance and repression in Kenya.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gachagua expressed outrage over Otieno’s killing, which occurred on Saturday night just 200 meters from the Elburgon Police Station. “The level of political intolerance and repression in our country is reaching disproportionate and alarming levels,” he wrote, describing the incident as a deliberate attempt to silence government critics.
Otieno, a well-known human rights defender, was attacked and killed by unknown assailants, sparking widespread outrage in Elburgon. Hundreds of residents took to the streets on Sunday, storming the local police station and demanding answers. The protests disrupted businesses as the community voiced frustrations over the police’s failure to protect Otieno, a figure who had consistently championed accountability and justice.
Known for his vocal criticism of the government and the area MP, Kimani Kuria, Otieno had recently participated in the 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 Molo community, urging swift government action to ensure justice. “As we mourn this promising young man, we call for justice. His killers must be brought to book, come what may,” he asserted.
The former Deputy President decried the murder as a “pathetic and archaic strategy to silence government critics” and called on authorities to address the growing climate of fear.
“May God rest Raymond Otieno’s soul in eternal peace and comfort his family. “Gachagua Concluded
