Kazungu Kambi and MPs link George Muchai death to Cotu fights
Pallbearers led by Kiambu senator Kimani Wamatangi (left) and Limuru MP John Kiragu carry the casket containing the remains of Kabete MP George Muchai at his home in Kamulu, Nairobi. The fallen trade unionist was buried at his home in a ceremony attended by top government officials on February 13, 2015. PHOTO | RAPHAEL NJOROGE |
What you need to know:
- Leaders point finger at union officials.
- Cotu responds with threat of legal action.
A Cabinet Secretary and three MPs have linked the death of Kabete MP George Muchai to wrangles in the Central Organisation of Trade Unions.
Labour CS Kazungu Kambi on Friday said he knew what led to Mr Muchai’s death and threatened to resign if the killers were not prosecuted.
MPs Alice N’gan’ga (Thika), Francis Waititu (Juja) and Moses Kuria (Gatundu South) said investigations should not ignore the fights between Mr Muchai and other Cotu officials.
Mr Kambi spoke during the MP’s burial at Kamulu on Friday. It was attended by Deputy President William Ruto and Cord leader Raila Odinga.
He said Mr Muchai lived in fear towards the end of his life. “We know who they (killers) are. The cases Mr Muchai filed in court would have resulted in the conviction of some people,” Mr Kambi said.
COURT ACTION
However, Mr Ruto cautioned leaders against speculating on the death.
“However emotional we may be, let’s give police time to pin down those who caused the MP’s death,” the DP said.
He said the death would not stop the government from fighting corruption.
Mr Kuria said Mr Muchai complained about the rot in Cotu to a House committee.
“From what we discussed, there is no doubt that his death can be linked to the union,” he said.
Mr Munyua loudly wondered why Cotu officials did not attend the burial yet Mr Muchai was part of its leadership for many years.
Mr Odinga backed the DP and asked the leaders to allow police to carry out their investigations.
Meanwhile, Cotu officials have said they will take legal action against Mr Kambi and the three lawmakers.
Speaking to journalists at the organisation’s headquarters in Nairobi on Friday, the officials led by Deputy Secretary-General Benson Okwaro and board members Ernest Nadome, Francis Wangara and Joel Chebii said they would file a case on Monday.
