Tanzanian Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen faced intense scrutiny from Members of Parliament over the increasing cases of abductions and goonism in the country, particularly with the 2027 General Elections approaching. During a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, lawmakers expressed concern over the government's inaction in curbing the growing culture of goonism in political meetings. They also demanded answers on the whereabouts of individuals reported missing.
Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang'ula recounted a harrowing experience where he nearly lost his life to goons at a burial in Kisumu County. He stated that he had attended the burial of Nyando MP Jared Okelo's mother, only to be confronted by the assailants. This incident and others like it have raised concerns among lawmakers about the government's ability to ensure safety and security ahead of the 2027 polls.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo warned that if the government fails to address goonism decisively, more fatalities are likely to occur. She expressed concern that the issue is not being taken seriously and that politicians, including MPs, are fueling the problem. Odhiambo urged the government to arrest and prosecute politicians involved in goonism, emphasizing that it is crucial to tackle the issue to prevent future incidents.
Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje emphasized that a peaceful 2027 election depends on how the government addresses goonism. He sought assurance from Minister Murkomen that the government would deal with those involved, regardless of their political affiliations. Mwenje stated that if the government takes decisive action, it would contribute to peaceful elections.
Majority leader Kimani Ichung'wah accused the Ministry of Interior of failing to take action against those who have confessed to mobilizing goons. He cited the case of former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo, who boasted about mobilizing goons on TV. Ichung'wah emphasized that politicians and the Executive are contributing to the problem and that it needs to be addressed.
Several MPs shared specific incidents of abductions and goonism in their constituencies. Runyenjes MP Karemba Muchangi reported that goons had interfered with a meeting presided over by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Embu, resulting in two deaths and several cars being burned. Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba stated that a police officer abducted in his constituency was found dead in River Yala.
Minister Murkomen assured the House that investigations are ongoing, and police are pursuing all available leads to establish the whereabouts of missing individuals and identify those responsible. He also stated that over 100 goons have been arrested in connection with the Homa Bay incident during the Linda Mwananchi rally and presented in various courts. Key Points:
Key points
- Tanzanian lawmakers question Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen over rising abductions and goonism ahead of 2027 polls
- The government faces criticism for inaction in curbing goonism and addressing abductions
- Over 100 goons arrested in connection with the Homa Bay incident during the Linda Mwananchi rally
