COTU Secretary General Atwoli Claims Some Kenyans Stage Own Abductions for Funding
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has sparked controversy with claims that some individuals in Kenya stage their own abductions to secure funding from various organizations.
Speaking during the burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s mother in Bungoma County on Friday, January 3, Atwoli revealed he had knowledge of such cases due to his extensive international networks.
“Regarding abductions, I work with numerous organizations worldwide. Some people are orchestrating their own abductions to get financial aid from certain organizations,” he alleged.
Atwoli also urged parents to guide their children in becoming respectful and responsible citizens, particularly in their use of social media.
“Your rights should not infringe on the rights of others. We must respect the Office of the President,” he emphasized.
The burial, attended by President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, governors, cabinet secretaries, and lawmakers, turned into a platform for fiery remarks on the ongoing abduction crisis in the country.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi called for objective criticism of the government while warning against personal attacks. He urged government agencies to enforce the law against those misusing social media.
“You can criticize government policies, but personal attacks are unacceptable. Let the law deal with violators,” Kingi stated.
However, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya strongly opposed Atwoli’s comments, describing them as insensitive to grieving families.
“I say this with a very heavy heart. For a leader to claim that people are abducting and killing themselves is unfortunate and inappropriate for this solemn occasion,” Natembeya remarked.
He further noted, “Our children are going missing and being killed. That is the reality we must confront.”
The debate over abductions comes as families across the country continue demanding answers about the fate of loved ones taken by unknown individuals.
On Monday, protests erupted in parts of the country, with citizens urging the government to act swiftly in locating missing persons. Despite the public outcry, the whereabouts of the victims remain unknown.
