Tharaka MP George Murugara has expressed skepticism over the reported abduction of Juja MP George Koimburi, suggesting that the incident may have been staged for political mileage. Speaking during an appearance on Citizen TV’s DayBreak, Murugara said it was difficult to believe politicians when such cases arise, pointing to a pattern of theatrics common among Kenyan leaders.
Murugara questioned Koimburi’s failure to surrender to police voluntarily, stating, “He should have gone to the nearest police station and surrendered himself. Because he knew they were looking for him… he ran away. That’s why there are question marks.”
The Juja MP was reportedly seized by unknown individuals outside a church in Mugutha, only to be found a day later at a coffee plantation in Kiambu County with soft-tissue injuries. A video showing his alleged dumping at the farm quickly went viral, fueling speculation of foul play.
However, the National Police Service (NPS) dismissed the abduction narrative, claiming Koimburi deliberately went into hiding to avoid arrest over a land fraud case. According to the NPS, the arrest had been authorized by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
Murugara highlighted the challenges of distinguishing between genuine incidents and political stunts. “Unfortunately, this is a politician, and they are known for all manner of antics from time to time,” he remarked.
He drew a comparison to the case of Kasipul MP Charles Were, where Philip Aroko, a suspect, surrendered to authorities, adding that Koimburi should have taken a similar approach if innocent.
Murugara also acknowledged that state-instigated arrests do occur, citing the recent case of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. Still, he maintained that many arrests occur without drama, and any theatrics are often deliberate.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who visited Koimburi in hospital, claimed the MP was beaten and forced to inhale a harmful chemical, causing him to lose his voice. The incident continues to divide public opinion, with investigations ongoing.
