Sifuna Raises Alarm Over “Tuju Situation,” Warns on Rule of Law and Investor Confidence

The Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement, Edwin Sifuna, has raised concern over the circumstances surrounding Raphael Tuju, warning that the matter points to a troubling pattern in how commercial disputes are handled in the country.

In a strongly worded statement, Sifuna said the issue goes beyond a private matter, arguing that it reflects what he described as a growing trend of using coercive tactics to resolve business conflicts.

“We must all be gravely concerned about this Tuju situation. You may say it is a private matter, but it is a continuation of the ‘mambo ni matatu’ way of solving private commercial disputes,” he said.

The ODM Secretary General linked the situation to other recent high-profile business controversies, including disputes involving prominent investors and foreign businessmen, claiming they signal a deteriorating environment for enterprise in Kenya.

According to Sifuna, such developments risk undermining investor confidence and could have far-reaching economic consequences, including reduced private sector activity and limited job opportunities for young people.

“No investor would put their money into such a country. It is why the private sector is fleeing Kenya, it is why our young people have no jobs,” he stated.

Sifuna emphasized the need to uphold constitutional principles, particularly the rule of law, saying economic growth and stability depend on predictable and transparent governance.

“It is why we keep insisting on the values of our Constitution. It is why we sing rule of law. It is not about shiny things,” he added.

He called on the state to account for Tuju’s situation, insisting that authorities have a duty to protect citizens and ensure justice is served.

“The state, whose job it is to protect citizens, must now produce Tuju,” Sifuna said.

The remarks are likely to intensify debate over governance, investor protection, and the handling of commercial disputes in Kenya, amid growing scrutiny from political leaders and stakeholders.