Busia Senator Denied Report Against Ruto Over "Sword" Remarks

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has been denied the opportunity to file a police report against President William Ruto over alleged death threats made during a church fundraiser in Kisii County. Omtatah claims that Ruto's remarks, specifically mentioning a "sword" and those who oppose his development agenda, constituted a threat to his life and the lives of others.

The incident occurred on December 16th, 2023, at a fundraiser held at Cardinal High School in Mosocho. According to Omtatah, Ruto stated, "We will not be cowed by those who are going to court every time we want to develop the country. We will not be intimidated by threats. We will not be stopped by those who want to use the law to slow down development. We will use the same sword they are using to cut through the red tape."

Omtatah interpreted these words as a veiled threat, claiming they targeted him and other critics of the President's policies. He attempted to file a report at the Mosocho Police Station but was referred to the Nyanchwa Police Station. However, upon arriving at Nyanchwa, his request was denied by the Officer in Charge, who reportedly refused to take his statement.

"I have been turned away from recording a statement at Nyanchwa Police Station," Omtatah stated to the press. "The Officer in Charge has refused to take my complaint, saying that the matter does not fall under his jurisdiction. This is a clear attempt to shield the President from accountability."

Omtatah's actions have sparked controversy, with some Kenyans supporting his right to report any perceived threat, while others criticize his interpretation of Ruto's remarks as overly sensitive. The incident also raises concerns about potential intimidation of political dissent in Kenya.

The President's office has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Meanwhile, Omtatah has vowed to pursue the issue further, stating, "I will not be silenced. I will continue to fight for the rights of all Kenyans, and I will not rest until justice is served."

The denial of Omtatah's report adds another layer of complexity to the already tense relationship between the Busia Senator and President Ruto. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact Kenyan politics and the ongoing debate about freedom of speech and political accountability.

This development highlights the importance of a free and independent judiciary in Kenya, as well as the need for clear guidelines on how to handle allegations of threats against public officials. Only time will tell whether Omtatah's claims will be investigated and whether Ruto's words will be interpreted as a genuine threat or simply a figure of speech.