The Wiper Democratic Movement, led by Kalonzo Musyoka, has expelled Daadab Member of Parliament Farah Maalim from the party following remarks he made at a rally in Uasin Gishu County. The comments, deemed disparaging towards a segment of Kenyans, were the tipping point for the party’s decision to sever ties with the outspoken MP.
Speaking at a press conference, Kalonzo Musyoka described the decision as difficult but necessary. “While we value freedom of speech, there are limits when it comes to respect for all citizens. Mr. Maalim’s remarks crossed the line, and the party cannot condone such behavior,” Kalonzo stated.
The party leader, however, did not confirm if they had formally notified National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula about the expulsion, a critical procedural step in determining Maalim’s parliamentary fate.
In a related development, Kalonzo Musyoka and his allies have intensified calls for accountability from top government officials over a spate of enforced disappearances. The issue gained prominence recently after Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi recorded a statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding the abduction of his son. The young man has since been released, but the incident has cast a spotlight on the troubling trend of disappearances in the country.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has revealed that 25 Kenyans remain missing as of June 2023. The commission also recorded 85 cases of abductions within the same period, painting a grim picture of the human rights situation. The KNCHR has urged the government to prioritize investigations and provide families with answers.
Kalonzo echoed this call during his address, urging government agencies to act swiftly. “The families of those missing deserve closure, and perpetrators must be held accountable. Enforced disappearances are a stain on our democracy,” he declared.
Farah Maalim’s expulsion marks a significant shift in the Wiper Party’s internal dynamics. Known for his vocal stance on national issues, Maalim’s removal may trigger debates on political tolerance and free speech within party structures. Additionally, the spotlight on enforced disappearances has increased public scrutiny of government performance, raising questions about security and justice in Kenya.
As the political landscape shifts, Kenyans await developments on both the expulsion process and the government’s response to the rising cases of enforced disappearances. These events underscore the delicate balance between individual accountability and broader societal issues
