Matiang'i: Police lied about poll observer's slapping incident

What you need to know:

  • Interior CS Matiang'i says police action frustrating.
  • Dr Matiang'i says he has taken a personal interest in the matter.
  • CS has warned the "minders" of the attacker they will be probed and punished.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has revealed that police officers did not record a statement from the woman who was assaulted in Nyeri as had earlier been reported.

Upon following up on the matter, Dr Matiang’i said police officers lied to their seniors about the Ruguru Ward-by election incident where Ms Martha Miano, a poll observer, was slapped in front of police officers, electoral officials and Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua.

“There was no P3 form given, there was no report taken and therefore the people did not go to court. It was a lie,” the Interior CS said.

The Interior boss has warned that the “minders” of the assailants will not go scot-free.

“I have asked the DCIO to follow on the minders of those people even if there are political leaders or whatever they are, they also should face the law,” said Dr Matiang’i.

Speaking on Friday during a meeting with National Assembly's National Security and Administration Committee in Mombasa, the Interior CS condemned the incident.

“I want to promise you on this particular matter, I have taken personal interest. I have told the IG to ensure the matter is followed up and justice done. We cannot have that kind of a situation that we saw the other day when a lady is slapped in that manner in the presence of police officers and within the vicinity of a police station,” he said.

He added: “We are not going to help this country if we behave in this kind of irresponsible manner. For the men in the room. How