President William Ruto has criticised close associates of Raphael Tuju, accusing them of misleading him into faking an abduction for public sympathy.
Speaking in Siaya on March 24, Ruto argued that Tuju’s allies were exploiting his situation instead of offering meaningful support, insisting the former Cabinet Secretary needs honest guidance to navigate his challenges.
Tuju, who had been reported missing on March 21, resurfaced two days later, saying he had gone into hiding after suspecting he was being followed. However, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) dismissed the claims, alleging the incident was staged. The controversy has drawn political reactions, with opposition figures led by Kalonzo Musyoka accusing the state of targeting Tuju, claims the government has rejected.
Ruto maintained that those around Tuju were taking advantage of his predicament for political gain rather than helping him resolve his legal troubles. He said Tuju requires sincere advice and support to protect his property and move forward, not individuals seeking attention through his difficulties. The president also criticised opposition leaders for linking former president Uhuru Kenyatta to the matter, saying the move was meant to score political points instead of addressing the real issues.
“They (opposition) have mislead Tuju. They told him to hide in his bedroom and then claim he had been abducted. Tuju needs honest friends and advice to be helped. He doesn’t need scavengers who are trying to exploit the misfortune. They are looking for popularity through someone’s predicament. Tuju should be advised and helped to save his property so that he can move forward,” Ruto said.
Tuju is currently admitted at The Karen Hospital after reportedly developing health complications while in police custody at Karen Police Station. He had been expected to appear in court but was unable to do so due to his condition. Through his lawyers, he sought anticipatory bail and requested the withdrawal of police officers stationed at his hospital bedside.
His legal troubles are tied to a long-running dispute with the East African Development Bank over a loan taken in 2015, which has led to ongoing efforts to recover property linked to the debt.
