Siaya Governor James Orengo has raised concern over the alleged abduction of a vocal Bunge La Mwananchi member, accusing the government of targeting critics and suppressing freedom of expression.
Taking to his X account, Orengo claimed that Evance “Kidero Jasuba” Kawala, a prominent figure associated with the Jacaranda Bunge La Mwananchi movement, had allegedly been abducted under unclear circumstances.
The governor linked the alleged incident to Kawala’s outspoken criticism of the government, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of using intimidation tactics against dissenting voices.
“Tonight, the Ruto administration resorted to desperate measures by abducting Evance ‘Kidero Jasuba’ Kawala, a vocal champion of the Jacaranda Bunge La Mwananchi, simply for speaking truth to power,” Orengo said.
The veteran politician further called on members of the Bunge La Mwananchi movement to remain steadfast, assuring them that efforts were underway to establish Kawala’s whereabouts and secure his release.
“To the Bunge La Mwananchi family: stay firm. We are actively on this case and will see it through to the end,” he added.
Orengo also condemned what he described as growing oppression against government critics, stating that silencing individuals would not stop citizens from demanding accountability.
“Oppression only signals a government’s weakness. You can abduct a critic, but you cannot chain the spirit of defiance,” the governor stated.
He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Kawala.
