Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Tuesday sharply criticised the manner in which former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju was taken into custody by police and officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), describing it as “unacceptable” and a violation of basic human dignity.
Addressing journalists outside Karen Police Station, Kalonzo said he had personally escorted Tuju to the station in “good faith” to record a statement after security officers earlier surrounded and blocked access to the former Foreign Affairs minister’s home.
The Wiper leader said police barricaded the property for hours, preventing residents and visitors from leaving until Tuju was produced.
“Hours ago, police and DCI officers surrounded and barricaded Hon. Raphael Tuju’s home, refusing to let anyone leave until they had him,” Kalonzo said.
“I personally drove him to Karen Police Station to record a statement in good faith, in the spirit of due process."
Kalonzo, flanked by senior public figures including Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Senator Dan Maanzo, Prof. PLO Lumumba, and Adv. Ndegwa Njiru, condemned what he termed a degrading and “inhumane” arrest procedure once Tuju arrived at the station.
“What followed was unacceptable,” he said. “Hon. Tuju was carried away in a manner that no Kenyan, indeed no human being, should ever experience.
In a show of solidarity, the group of leaders pledged not to leave the police premises until clarity on Tuju’s treatment and legal process is provided.
“We are not leaving,” Kalonzo declared, underscoring concerns over respect for constitutional rights and civil liberties during law enforcement operations.
Tuju was earlier reported missing on Monday after his vehicle was found abandoned in Karen, prompting fears of abduction.
However, police later said they located him at his residence and allege that his disappearance was staged — a claim Tuju has disputed.
Investigators have arrested him on allegations of providing false information and obstructing justice, which are offences under Kenyan law.
The former Cabinet Secretary’s legal troubles come amid an ongoing financial dispute with lenders seeking recovery of a loan secured through his company, Dari Limited, with property in Karen slated for auction.
Kalonzo’s public stand marks a rare and pointed criticism of police conduct by a major political figure. He called for adherence to due process, respect for human dignity, and transparency in all stages of the investigation.