Tension As Police Officer Is Among 5 Thieves Killed While Trying Bank Robbery, Details

Five suspected thieves, including an alleged police officer, were killed by a mob in Kericho County on Tuesday, February 17, after they were accused of stealing Ksh1.2 million from a businessman who had withdrawn the money from a local bank.

According to reports, the businessman had allegedly withdrawn SACCO money from the bank when he was accosted by the thieves after they trailed him within Soin and Sigowet sub-counties.

Police report that the amount stolen is estimated to be between Ksh1.1 million and Ksh1.5 million, though investigations are ongoing to verify the exact figure.

However, the Murang’a senator made it clear that ODM is facing a big test now that Raila Odinga is no longer there to hold the party together. He said many people are comparing Sifuna’s current stand to what happened years ago with Ababu Namwamba.

In 2016, Namwamba fell out with ODM leadership and left the party. At that time, Raila Odinga was still active and strong in the party, and he managed to keep ODM united. Nyutu said that situation is different today.

“ODM can’t be held together without Raila Odinga. People have been comparing Edwin Sifuna to Ababu Namwamba, saying his rebellion will fizzle out. Back then, it worked because Baba was alive, but it won’t work now that he is gone,” Nyutu said.

Nyutu’s remarks are likely to spark more debate within ODM and the wider opposition. Many leaders are now trying to find a way forward as the party adjusts to life without the man who led it for many years.