- CHADEMA condemned the incident and called on President Ruto to intervene and ensure urgent steps are taken to trace Mwaipaya and secure his safe return alive.
Tanzania’s opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) has appealed to President William Ruto to intervene in the reported abduction of its member and activist Twaha Mwaipaya in Machakos County, Kenya, and ensure he is found safe and returned alive.
Mwaipaya was reportedly seized at around 2:00 pm on Sunday while travelling in a taxi to visit friends.
Amnesty International Kenya and the Defenders Coalition said the individuals involved were travelling in three vehicles, including a Toyota Land Cruiser hardtop, although the identities of those responsible and Mwaipaya’s current location remained unknown as of Sunday evening.
CHADEMA condemned the incident and called on President Ruto to intervene and ensure urgent steps are taken to trace Mwaipaya and secure his safe return alive.
“We call upon the President of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, to intervene in this matter and ensure urgent action is taken to trace and locate Twaha Mwaipaya and secure his safe return alive, following his reported abduction on Kenyan soil,” the party said.
It also called on the relevant authorities to establish his whereabouts, protect his safety and hold those responsible accountable under the law.
The party condemned what it described as acts of abduction and intimidation targeting its leaders and members, warning that such incidents create fear and threaten the safety and security of citizens.
It emphasised that the rule of law, respect for human rights and the protection of citizens are key pillars of a democratic society.
“CHADEMA reiterates that the rule of law, the protection of human rights, and the safety of citizens are fundamental pillars of a democratic society. No individual should be abducted, threatened, or deprived of their right to live in safety because of their political beliefs or involvement in the activities of a political party,” reads the statement.
CHADEMA further reminded the police and other relevant authorities that their main responsibility is to protect human life and property and maintain public security without political discrimination.
It said its leaders and members are Tanzanian citizens with equal rights who deserve protection under the law, just like leaders and members of other political parties.
The party also urged the relevant authorities to carry out their duties professionally and accountably, investigate the incident fully and engage with the Government of Kenya to ensure Mwaipaya is found safe and sound.