Allegations of Poisoning Involving Juja MP George Koimburi Raise Concerns
During a press briefing outside the hospital, Gachagua accused the government of employing “desperate tactics” aimed at silencing its dissenters.
MP George Koimburi Poisoned, Left Unable to Speak, Gachagua Claims. Photo/Kenyans.co.ke.
By Robert Assad
Juja Member of Parliament George Koimburi has reportedly been poisoned with a chemical that has resulted in the paralysis of his vocal cords, as stated by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Gachagua made these remarks on the evening of Monday, following his visit to the hospitalised MP at Karen Hospital. He characterised Koimburi as being in a frail condition, with limited mobility and a loss of voice.
It has been reported that the MP was discovered abandoned in a coffee plantation in Kiambu County after a disappearance lasting 18 hours.
During a press briefing outside the hospital, Gachagua accused the government of employing “desperate tactics” aimed at silencing its dissenters.
He asserted that Koimburi was subjected to torture by professionals linked to high-ranking state officials, alleging that poisoning occurred through inhalation of toxic substances.
“I have personally spoken with him and consulted the medical staff,” Gachagua declared. “They have confirmed that he was subjected to torture by trained individuals. He has sustained soft tissue injuries and has lost his voice; however, the medical team is diligently working to aid in his recovery.”
He further indicated that although Koimburi is not in immediate danger, the repercussions of the poisoning are severe.
The difficulties experienced by Koimburi began on Friday, May 23, when he was reportedly targeted while distributing bursaries, narrowly evading an attempt at detention. His associates have stated that no official summons had been issued before his disappearance.
Gachagua, a prominent critic of the Kenya Kwanza government, also contended that security details assigned to opposition Members of Parliament have been withdrawn, thereby putting these individuals at risk. He cautioned that political leaders opposing the government are being systematically targeted.
This incident is not the first occasion on which Gachagua has made such allegations. One week prior, he asserted that state operatives had been instructed to eliminate him.
On May 19, during a press conference at his residence in Karen, Gachagua disclosed that he had received intelligence regarding a planned biological attack against him while he was attending church in Murang’a County.
He drew comparisons between the current situation in Kenya and recent political crackdowns observed in Tanzania, urging the international community to take note of the alleged human rights violations.
Investigative efforts into Koimburi’s disappearance and his medical condition have yet to be officially acknowledged by relevant authorities.
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