COTU Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, has stirred controversy with claims that some individuals in the country are staging their own abductions in order to receive financial support from organizations.
Atwoli made the sensational statement during the burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s mother and Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi’s mother on Friday.
Speaking to mourners, Atwoli, who has extensive networks with international organizations, suggested that abductions were being orchestrated by individuals seeking funding under false pretenses.
“On abductions, I work with many organizations across the world, some people are abducting themselves so that they can get money from some organizations,” Atwoli said, drawing mixed reactions from those in attendance.
Atwoli also took the opportunity to address the youth, stressing the importance of teaching children to be respectful and responsible, particularly when using social media.
“Your right is not key to tamper with the rights of others. We must respect the office of the President,” he added.
The highly charged burial service, held in Bungoma, was attended by a host of prominent leaders, including President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and several MPs, governors, and government officials.
As the burial ceremony unfolded, the issue of abductions remained a focal point. While some leaders spoke on the matter, Ruto’s allies came to the government’s defense, emphasizing that the issue should be handled responsibly.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi called for objective criticism of the government, cautioning against personal attacks. “You can criticize the policies of the government, but you cannot get personal,” Kingi remarked, urging government agencies to take action against those violating the law, particularly on social media.
However, not all leaders agreed with Atwoli’s remarks. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, visibly upset, disagreed with the assertion that people were faking abductions. “I say this with a very heavy heart. For a leader to stand here and say people are abducting and killing themselves, is unfortunate. It is not for this hallowed grounds,” Natembeya said. “Our children are getting lost and killed; that is the position,” he added, underscoring the gravity of the abduction issue.
At the heart of the debate are the rising cases of abductions, with Kenyans demanding answers about the whereabouts of several individuals who were picked up by unknown men in various parts of the country. The disappearances have led to protests, with citizens calling for the immediate release of those still missing.
Despite the protests, none of the individuals who have been abducted have been released as of the time of writing.
