Former Kenyan Minister Raphael Tuju Resurfaces After Abduction Fears
Former Kenyan Foreign Minister Raphael Tuju has resurfaced following a day of intense concern over his reported disappearance, which had raised fears of a possible abduction. In an interview with local Citizen TV station, Tuju disclosed that he deliberately went into hiding after being trailed by an unmarked vehicle, a situation that prompted widespread alarm among his family and political circles.
Details of the Disappearance and Reappearance
Tuju explained that upon realizing he was being followed, he diverted onto a less accessible road to evade the pursuing vehicle. After successfully shaking off the tail, he abandoned his car, which he believed would be a target for those tracking him. "My family is very traumatized, and I consider myself blessed because there are many Kenyans in unmarked graves," he stated, expressing gratitude to Kenyans and opposition politicians for their support during the ordeal.
He further clarified that his decision to avoid police assistance stemmed from past incidents involving other Kenyans who had been abducted or killed, leading him to prioritize his safety by going into hiding instead.
Police Investigation and Family Concerns
Earlier, Kenyan police had launched an investigation into Tuju's disappearance and appealed to the public for any relevant information. His family reported that the ex-minister and his driver went missing while en route to an evening radio interview on Saturday. Police later discovered his vehicle abandoned with its hazard lights activated along a road in Karen, an upscale suburb of Nairobi.
Authorities noted that attempts to contact Tuju were unsuccessful as his phone was switched off, adding to the urgency of the search efforts.
Background of Legal and Property Disputes
The former minister, who has held several government roles, is currently embroiled in a protracted legal battle concerning the auction and takeover of his properties in Nairobi. This dispute revolves around an unsettled bank loan exceeding $15 million, linked to properties owned by Tuju's company, Dari Limited.
Recently, Tuju alleged that dozens of police officers raided his property in Karen, forcibly removed his staff and security guards, and took control of the business premises. He claimed that powerful officials were orchestrating efforts to seize his assets, though the government has not commented on these allegations.
Tuju has filed multiple legal challenges to halt the auction, with recent court orders temporarily barring the property transfer until his latest application is reviewed.
Legal and Political Reactions
Prior to his disappearance, Tuju's lawyer, Paul Nyamodi, informed local media that the ex-minister had reported being followed by an unmarked vehicle to the police. The incident sparked allegations from prominent opposition figures, who suggested Tuju might have been abducted.
Opposition politician Kalonzo Musyoka remarked, "We thank God that our brother is alive and well. The truth of the matter is that there is an abduction squad in town. Let everybody calm down and adhere to the principles of constitutionalism and the rule of law."
This event underscores ongoing tensions in Kenya related to property disputes and security concerns, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by public figures amidst legal and political challenges.
