Ex-police spokesperson Charles Owino blasted Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi over his attacks on the government in the escalating fallout over the alleged abduction of his son.
The former police officer faulted Muturi, saying he was in the Cabinet, and publicly condemning the abductions was not in order, as it would amount to breaching the trust of President William Ruto, who appointed him.
While speaking on Citizen TV on Thursday morning, Owino said if Muturi was not comfortable serving in the Kenya Kwanza government, he should ship out.
“Usually what happens in the Cabinet meeting is that when you leave and a decision is made, you have only two alternatives to go by that decision if not to resign,” he stated.
Ex-police Spokesperson Charles Owino speaking to the press at a past event.
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NPS
According to Owino, there are well-laid-out communication protocols between the President and security agencies like the National Intelligence Service (NIS), dismissing the claims that Ruto was directly involved in the abduction of Muturi’s son.
“NIS reports to the National Security Council as well as to the head of the republic and shares their security reports to the organs of the country, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Police Service,” he explained, distancing Ruto from the abduction saga.
While Owino acknowledged there might be divergent opinions in the cabinet, it is not proper for a CS appointed by the President to air the differences publicly.
“The CS has been an attorney general and member of the National Security Council. If it is true, he got the information that his child was with NIS and went to the president,” he explained, noting it was a show of trust and respect.
Owino defended the NIS, saying it is a crucial organ in the country. “NIS is an important organ in the country because they may have sensitive issues and matters that they want to get from individuals,” he defended.
Muturi’s son was allegedly picked up by armed men along Denis Pritt Road, turning into Olengruone Avenue. The son was in the company of two other friends.
Cracks have recently emerged in Ruto’s government, with one faction led by Muturi calling out President Ruto over recent cases of abductions in the country while the other seemingly defends the abductions.
Muturi’s revelations came as a huge surprise to Kenyans since the incident happened about five months ago. This has resulted in speculation mounting over his future in President William Ruto’s government.
President William Ruto (right) and Public Service CS Justin Muturi
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PCS