Gusii professionals laud DPP for dropping Matiang’i’s case
Gusii professionals have lauded the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji for dropping charges against former Interior cabinet Secretary, Dr Fred Matiang’i, terming the charges political.
Led by Geoffrey Mogire and Fred Ontiri, they urged the government to respect the former CS, saying he was loyal to his boss, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and should not be mistreated.
They lauded the Director for looking at the matter professionally, embracing the rule of law and urged him to extend the same gesture to other Kenyans.
The professionals said they will not allow Matiangi to be attacked, stressing they do not expect President William Ruto’s government to embrace revenge.
“We shall not tolerate juvenile attacks on his personality or among leaders. It is a desire of Gusii leaders to unite and respect one another,” Mogire told the Press at St Vincent pastoral centre today.
He said holders of the Interior Docket were respected globally and treated as such and not the harassment the former CS was subjected to.
The former Kisii county Agriculture Chief Officer said the former CS has nothing to apologize for and should be left to enjoy his freedom of association and movement.
“As Gusii leaders and professionals, we rally behind him and demand respect from the national arena. His inalienable rights should be respected,” Mogire stated
He said Matiang’I is Gusii community’s foremost son , leader, workaholic who cut his image as a national figure when he served in various Ministries under the Jubilee government.
On Monday, Haji dropped charges of conspiracy to commit a felony and publishing false information, a day after Education cabinet Secretary, Ezekiel Machogu, Matiang’i and other leaders assembled and discussed the matter.
Mogire said they recognize president Ruto’s government but should not be vindictive, stressing, the former CS restored integrity in national examinations, fought banditry, Al Shabaab and deserves respect.
He said president Uhuru’s administration was accused of State agents to frustrate politicians, stressing they expect Ruto’s government to break from the past and focus on development.
The former Chief officer lauded president Ruto’s planned visit to Gusii between 24 and 26 and urged leaders and members of the public to welcome him.
“The President is coming with a basket of goodies and hope our leaders have prepared a memorandum to give him,” Mogire said.
Former Deputy Governor, Joash Maangi, chairing a committee forMachogu’s homecoming to be graced by the president said on phone preparations were on top gear.
“We are ready to host the president and his entourage and will address the press on Monday” Maangi said.
Ontiri urged president Ruto’s government to shun looking at past mistakes, saying they will derail the government’s development agenda.
“Once you are in power, do not look for past mistakes. It does not help. We expect the government to work to improve the lives of Kenyans,” Ontiri said.