Keiyo North Deputy County Commissioner Orders Investigation into Rogue Chief Amid Justice Allegations
“They forced my thumbprint onto papers using soot from a sufuria,” she claimed, adding that the documents remain undisclosed.
Keiyo North Deputy County Commissioner Julius Maiyo launches investigations into allegations of abuse of power by local chief
Keiyo North Deputy County Commissioner Julius Maiyo has instituted an investigation against Chief Andrew Chemaringo of Kapcherop following allegations of abuse of office and the exploitation of vulnerable community members. The accusations were brought to light by the Centre Against Torture, which highlighted the plight of 90-year-old Elizabeth Sinyei, who has been embroiled in a decades-long land dispute.
“We are committed to ensuring justice for all, especially for the elderly and vulnerable,” Maiyo said. “No government official is above the law, and those found culpable will face the consequences.”
A 48-Year Fight for Justice
Elizabeth Sinyei, a resident of Kapchepsir village in Kapcherop Sub-location, has spent the better part of her life fighting for her late mother’s land. Born as the only child of her mother, tradition demanded that she remain at her maternal home to inherit the family property. However, after returning from Uasin Gishu to care for her aging mother, she was met with resistance and a legal battle with land grabbers.
The court ruled in Elizabeth’s favor last year, but the harassment has persisted. The land grabbers, allegedly backed by powerful individuals, have reportedly used local administrators, including Chief Chemaringo, and police officers to frustrate her.
Shocking Allegations of Corruption and Abuse
Sinyei accuses Chief Chemaringo and a DCI officer, identified as Constable Juma, of coercing her into signing documents using fraudulent means. “They forced my thumbprint onto papers using soot from a sufuria,” she claimed, adding that the documents remain undisclosed.
The chief has also allegedly been involved in extorting money from Sinyei’s family. Her daughter, who resides in Norway, reported being threatened and extorted for Ksh 100,000, with an initial demand of Ksh 200,000.
Sinyei’s plight has been compounded by her two sons, who, with the alleged assistance of the chief, sold land she purchased for them in Uasin Gishu. They have since returned to disturb her peace, leading to multiple incidents of assault and harassment.
Mary Jepkosgei, Sinyei’s daughter and primary caregiver, has also been targeted. She has suffered physical attacks, including a broken hand, and has faced legal challenges seemingly orchestrated to intimidate her.
Calls for Accountability
The Centre Against Torture has condemned the chief’s actions and called for immediate intervention. “This chief is a source of untold suffering for widows and vulnerable individuals in the community,” said a spokesperson for the organization.
The group has urged the County Criminal Investigation Office (CCIO) and County Commissioner to investigate the allegations, retrieve the forced documents, and hold Chief Chemaringo accountable.
Abuse of Office Alleged
Chief Chemaringo is accused of abusing his position to exclude Sinyei from benefiting from rural electrification projects, blocking road construction to her home, and intimidating anyone who attempts to assist her.
The organization has also alleged that the chief uses his connections with senior government officials and politicians to threaten police officers and evade accountability.
Seeking Justice
Elizabeth Sinyei’s case highlights systemic challenges faced by vulnerable individuals in accessing justice. Her family is now calling on the government to ensure her safety and to prosecute those responsible for her suffering.
“We urge the government to prioritize the protection of the elderly and vulnerable,” said Kimutai Kirui of the Centre Against Torture. “Public servants are meant to deliver service, not perpetuate crimes.”
As investigations unfold, there is growing hope that justice will prevail for Sinyei and others like her who have endured years of hardship at the hands of those meant to protect them.
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