Senate probe into Joshua Mwangi's disappearance hits snag as DCI fails to appear

The Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights hit a roadblock in its investigation into the disappearance of Joshua Gichuki Mwangi, a case that has remained unresolved since February 2020.

The committee, led by Senator Hillary Wakili Sigei, was scheduled to meet with key officials from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The session on Wednesday was intended to address concerns raised by Mwangi's wife, Christine Njoki Mweru, in a petition seeking the Senate's intervention in the case.

However, the proceedings stalled when the DCI failed to attend or submit the necessary documents for the session.

Meanwhile, the DPP sent representatives instead of attending the meeting personally, a move that was met with dissatisfaction from the committee.

Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo expressed frustration over the absence of the key officials.

"He has to appear in person. This is the standard procedure here in Parliament. We cannot address anyone who is not an accounting officer," she said.

Senator Veronica Maina echoed these sentiments, highlighting the seriousness of the case.

 "The matter before us touches on an individual's life and safety and cannot be taken casually. Therefore, we cannot hear any other person other than the DPP," she said, reinforcing the committee's stance on the importance of personal accountability from senior officials.

Committee Chair Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei expressed disappointment with the handling of the matter.

"This matter is critical, and he should take it seriously. The committee is sending fresh invitations for them to appear here on the 24th of this month," he said.

 The senator stressed the need for a more serious approach to the case, noting the importance of accountability in ensuring justice for the affected family.

The investigation centres on Mwangi's mysterious disappearance in February 2020. According to his wife, Mweru, the authorities have mishandled the case, leading to significant delays and a lack of progress in uncovering the truth about her husband's fate.

 Her petition to the Senate seeks intervention to compel the responsible agencies to act and deliver justice.