Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has told government officers who cannot take criticism from the members of the public to quit their positions.

Ndindi said any person who holds public office is answerable to the people, and they (people) have the right to question their conduct and working style.

He said the recent trend where people criticising the government or its officials are being abducted, tortured and killed in cold blood is despicable and has to end.

“As a leader, either elected or appointed, in any position of the government, you should know that it is the right of Kenyans to give their voice about your conduct in the office, and they will criticise you because they are expecting better,” he said.

Referring to teacher Albert Ojwang’ who was murdered in cold blood for allegedly making a statement on social media platforms, Ndindi said this is a clear indication that some individuals can’t stand having their character questioned.

“It is despicable that when a person raises any concern, the best retaliation from the government is having them killed. It is diabolical and very wrong,” added the MP, insisting that the government and its officers must respect the rights and lives of every Kenyan, and this trend of intimidating and harassing people has to come to an end.

According to the MP, people will not keep quiet because they are always demanding better leadership, and anyone who doesn’t want to be held accountable should go home.

“If you feel the heat is too much and you don’t want to be criticised or have people questioning your conduct, the simplest thing to do is to go home,” he remarked.

Speaking out

The legislator who was removed as the chair of the Budget Parliamentary Committee over his seemingly shifting political alignment said he will continue to call out the government on anything it is doing wrong to the people.

“Let no one think that they will intimidate us. We are going to speak about all the things going wrong in the country and must defend our people, whether they like it or not.”  

At the same time, the MP accused the government of its intent to kill the free basic education in the country due to underfunding of the education sector.

He raised concerns over the growing burden on the parents who are now forced to pay for services that were once catered for by the government.

The free education, he said, gave opportunities to millions of children to go to class and acquire basic knowledge, but now it’s at the brink of collapsing.

“If there is one sector we cannot afford to play with, it’s education because it’s the backbone of development as a country,” he added.

Teacher-cum-blogger Ojwang’s death has ignited national outrage, with most Kenyans calling for the sacking of Lagat as the probe continues.

Former Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat had filed a defamation complaint against Ojwang’ who was arrested in Homa Bay County and later murdered while in police custody at the Central Police Station.

In a statement issued when he stepped aside due to public pressure, Lagat said he would provide any support that may be required of him during the investigations of the brutal murder.

“I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations. The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until the investigations are concluded,” Lagat said.