My Life Is In Danger, Ababu Claims

Speaking when he appeared before the Powers and Privileges Committee on Thursday, the suspended Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC) chair said that he is receiving death threats from powerful forces as a result of his move to expose corruption in the Office of the President, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the “Hustler’s jet” saga.

Namwamba stated that he will go to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to record a statement in that regard and seek protection for himself and his family.

Namwamba is facing accusations of receiving bribes accusations he has vehemently denied, accusing Defence Principal Secretary Mutea Iringo of bribing four members of PAC to alter audit reports implicating government officials in corruption.

The embattled legislator has tabled a 15-minute audio recording supporting his claims before the National Assembly Powers and Privileges Committee which is investigating bribery allegations facing the powerful House committee.

Namwamba has also claimed that a section of PAC members were bribed to make changes to the audit report on judiciary alleged financial mismanagement.

The corruption allegations against Namwamba and some members of the committee prompted National Assembly Speaker Justine Muturi to suspend operations of PAC for 21 days to pave way for investigations. 

Meanwhile, MPs from Western Kenya have expressed support for embattled MP Ababu Namwamba. Led by Tongaren MP Eseli Simiyu further said that the team probing Namwamba should stretch further to other parliamentary committee.

Simiyu also asked the government to accord Namwamba security amid claims that his live is in danger.

CORD Leader Raila Odinga has since distanced the coalition from Namwamba’s tribulations, saying CORD expects the Budalangi MP to prove his innocence.  

By Benjamin Wafula