Eldoret Human Rights Activist Calls for Arrest and Prosecution of Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i Over Extra-Judicial Killings

 

 

 Outspoken human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i following the latter’s recent call for a commission of inquiry into alleged extra-judicial killings during his tenure. Ngetich termed Matiang’i’s statement as a “shocking self-indictment” and “a mockery of justice” for the many families who lost loved ones under mysterious circumstances during his time as the country’s top security official.

Speaking during a press briefing in Eldoret, Ngetich accused Dr. Matiang’i of hypocrisy, saying that by admitting knowledge of how extra-judicial killings were executed, the former CS had effectively confessed to withholding crucial information from investigative agencies — a criminal act in itself.

“It is the height of impunity for a man who oversaw the country’s internal security to now claim he wants justice, while it is clear he sat on vital information that could have prevented or exposed these crimes. This is not leadership — it is calculated political theater,” said Ngetich.

He further questioned Matiang’i’s motives, suggesting that his newfound activism stems from political ambitions and a desire to cleanse his tainted image ahead of a possible run for high office. According to Ngetich, the former CS’s remarks are part of a broader strategy to garner sympathy and tribal support, particularly from his Gusii community.

“The public must not be fooled. Matiang’i is trying to play the victim card while sidestepping responsibility for the brutal security operations that defined his time in office. We must ask — who is he targeting now? And why didn’t he act then if he had this information?” Ngetich posed.

Ngetich went on to caution the Gusii community against blindly rallying behind Dr. Matiang’i, claiming he is being used by political figures such as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to sow seeds of ethnic division and isolation. He accused Matiang’i of once undermining and demeaning President William Ruto during his tenure as Deputy President and warned that his brand of politics was laced with bitterness and tribal vengeance.

“Dr. Matiang’i cannot be trusted with any public office, let alone the presidency. His arrogance and recklessness are evident in how he throws around sensitive information for political gain. Such conduct is dangerous to our democracy and national cohesion,” said the activist.

Ngetich demanded that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) immediately summon Dr. Matiang’i for questioning, arguing that a public confession of knowledge about extra-judicial killings should not be taken lightly.

“This is not information for press conferences or barazas. It belongs in an official statement recorded with the DCI. Justice for victims of enforced disappearances and state killings cannot be politicized,” he added.

The activist concluded by urging Kenyans to reject leaders who exploit tribal identity for political gain and who have a record of impunity and authoritarianism.

“We must never allow our country to fall into the hands of those who disregard human rights and now use tribal mobilization as a shield against accountability,” Ngetich warned.