Makokha blames Ruto for Besigye’s continued detention in Uganda

By Newsflash Writer

Nakuru Bunge la Mwananchi President and Nakuru Town West MP aspirant Robert Makokha Wangokho has criticised President William Ruto over the continued detention of Ugandan opposition politician Dr Kizza Besigye, accusing the Kenyan government of failing to protect him when he was seized in Nairobi in November 2024.

Makokha said Kenya should have provided protection to Besigye, who was in the country for the launch of former Justice Minister Martha Karua’s book, instead of allowing him to be taken back to Uganda, where he remains in detention.

Speaking at Rhonda Central Church in Kaptembwa Ward, Nakuru Town West, on Saturday, September 19, Makokha said the incident demonstrated what he described as Kenya’s failure to protect people seeking refuge in the country.

Makokha was accompanied by activist Boniface Mwangi, who is also a 2027 presidential aspirant.

‘Kenya should have protected Besigye’

Makokha said the government should have shielded Besigye while he was in Kenya, arguing that his subsequent detention in Uganda was partly linked to the manner in which he was taken out of the country.

“When an animal seeks shelter in your homestead, you do not hand it back to its enemies,” Makokha said, citing a Luhya proverb.

Robert Makokha (left) with 2027 presidential aspirant Boniface Mwangi at Rhonda Central Church in Kaptembwa Ward, Nakuru County. Photo/Courtesy

Besigye was seized in Nairobi on November 16, 2024 and later appeared before a military court in Kampala. Kenyan authorities denied involvement in his transfer and said investigations would be conducted into how he was taken from the country.

Makokha, who has consistently campaigned on issues affecting ordinary citizens, said Besigye’s case was an example of what he considers a failure by the Kenyan government to protect fundamental rights.

He said the continued detention of the Ugandan opposition figure should concern Kenyans and other Africans because of the circumstances surrounding his removal from Kenya.

Makokha backs younger leadership

The Nakuru Town West MP aspirant also turned his criticism to the Ruto administration, accusing the President of failing to adequately address the needs of ordinary Kenyans.

Makokha described Ruto’s leadership as authoritarian and argued that Kenya needed a new generation of leaders to steer the country.

Robert Makokha (right) with Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Photo/Courtesy

He cited Mwangi and Ugunja MP Edwin Sifuna as examples of younger leaders whom he said could offer an alternative political direction for Kenya.

“Kenya needs young leaders who can put the country on the world map,” Makokha said.

He also accused the President of corruption, land grabbing and abductions, allegations that Ruto and his administration have repeatedly faced from political opponents and critics.

Makokha, who is seeking the Nakuru Town West parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election, said his political campaign would continue to focus on defending the interests of the common mwananchi.

His remarks came as Besigye’s detention continues to draw attention in the region, with his supporters and family raising concerns over his legal proceedings and treatment in custody.