Embakasi East MP Babu Owino with Alfred Keter at Kamukunji Police Station on June 30, 2024. Photo: Handout.
In Summary:
1) Former MP Alfred Keter was questioned about his relationships with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
2) Keter claims his arrest is an attempt to silence critics of the government, citing concerns over the Finance Bill and cost of living.
Interrogation Details:
Former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter has revealed the questions he was asked by detectives following his arrest on Sunday.
During a press conference on Monday after appearing at the DCI headquarters, Keter stated that detectives questioned him about his relationships with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
He was also asked about allegations concerning arms trafficking from Congo.
“They asked me about my relationship with Uhuru Kenyatta and the current deputy president…and issues to do with arms from Congo,” Keter said.
Claims of Intimidation:
Keter described the interrogation as a tactic to silence those vocal against the government, particularly regarding the Finance Bill and the rising cost of living.
He emphasized that he would continue to speak out despite attempts to intimidate him.
“Don’t intimidate us into silence. We know the issue is all about the concerns being raised by Kenyans on finance bills, cost of living, and the many promises they made,” Keter asserted.
“We did not make them make those promises, but the problem with them is that they always lie. We are not the problem,” he added.
Arrest Incident:
Keter was arrested as he left a church event in the Kileleshwa area of Nairobi, with his family present during the incident.
His family could be heard screaming for help as he was taken into custody. He was booked at Kamukunji Police Station and later released pending forensic analysis of exhibits.
His release followed the intervention of Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, among other leaders.
Background and Allegations:
Speaking as he presented himself to the Director of Criminal Investigations, Keter disclosed that the police suspected him of involvement in arms trafficking to Congo.
He maintained that his arrest was due to his outspoken stance against the government, particularly concerning the anti-Finance Bill protests.
“Let us follow the rule of law but generally, do not intimidate us into silence,” he added.
Keter accused the Kenya Kwanza government of failing to keep its campaign promises and misrepresenting facts to the Kenyan people.
He attributed this to the widespread discontent among Kenyans towards the regime.
Public Reaction:
Keter’s dramatic arrest sparked public outrage, with many likening it to an abduction. He was forcefully removed from his car amid screams and cries from his family on their way from church.
Later on Sunday evening, the DCI confirmed the arrest, citing charges related to arms trafficking and incitement to violence.
President Ruto, during a roundtable interview on Sunday night, confirmed the arrest, stating it was due to Keter’s failure to adhere to law enforcement summons.