Eldoret Human Rights Defenders Seek Protection Amid Ongoing Murder Investigations
“These developments are particularly alarming given the ongoing legal matter surrounding the murder of Samwel Migiro Ngoko
Human rights activist Kimutai Kirui addresses the media in Eldoret, calling for a thorough investigation into the killing of Philip Moi and alleged police cover-up.
Two Eldoret-based human rights defenders have expressed fears over their lives following what they describe as suspicious movements and alleged attempts to trace their residences, prompting a public call for protection and urgent investigations.
In a press release issued on 27 December 2025, the activists said their personal safety and that of their families was at risk after individuals allegedly linked to ongoing criminal cases were seen moving around Eldoret and making inquiries about their whereabouts.
“We are issuing this statement to formally place on public record our serious concerns regarding our safety and that of our families,” the statement reads.
The two named individuals, Kimutai Kirui and Benson Akumu, allege that persons identified to them have recently been spotted within Eldoret, reportedly attempting to establish the location of their residence .
“These developments are particularly alarming given the ongoing legal matter surrounding the murder of Samwel Migiro Ngoko, in which some suspects are still at large,” they stated.
They further raised concerns about possible interference with due process, citing the reported transfer of a police officer who had been handling a related case. According to the activists, this has heightened fears of intimidation and potential obstruction of justice.
“There are worrying indicators of interference with investigations, including administrative actions that undermine confidence in the process,” the statement notes.
The activists also pointed to other unresolved cases, claiming that individuals allegedly associated with the maiming of Kennedy Maswai remain at large.
They additionally called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to fast-track investigations into the murder of Philip Moi in Kipkenyo, describing a local politician as a key person of interest in the matter.
“While we acknowledge that investigations are ongoing, reported statements suggesting interference have contributed to fear, anxiety, and insecurity among affected parties and the wider community,” they said.
The activists further claimed that following the release of some suspects, individuals were allegedly heard singing provocative songs near the scene where Samwel Migiro Ngoko was killed, an act they say caused renewed trauma and distress among residents.
At least one incident involved a Toyota Probox that was allegedly seen making inquiries about their place of residence, further heightening their fears.
In their statement, Kirui and Akumu urged law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, independent oversight institutions, and the media to take their concerns seriously.
“We are calling for appropriate protection, thorough investigations, and independent oversight to ensure our safety and the integrity of due legal process,” they said, adding that journalists and media houses reporting on these matters should also be protected.
They warned that known personalities and media outlets are increasingly being targeted, a trend they say poses a serious threat to transparency and accountability.
“This statement is issued in good faith for the purposes of safety, transparency, accountability, and the rule of law,” the activists concluded.
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