Kanu secretary-general speaks out after arrest over lawyer Kyalo Mbobu’s shocking murder
He explained that on that fateful day, Mbobu was meeting with a neighbour, and their interaction was only a brief exchange of greetings.
Kenya African National Union (Kanu) National Secretary-General George Wainaina on Sunday evening broke his silence over his arrest and questioning in connection with the murder of lawyer Kyalo Mbobu.
In a statement, Wainaina described his brief encounter with the late lawyer before the killing that shocked the nation.
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"On Thursday, I was arrested by police officers following CCTV footage that showed me exchanging a greeting with the late advocate Kyallo Mbobu at the parking lot of Sagret Hotel, before the tragic incident that claimed his life," said Wainaina.
He explained that on that day, Mbobu was meeting with a neighbour, and their interaction was only a brief exchange of greetings.
"In the wake of his shocking murder, I understood the heightened scrutiny that follows every lead as the authorities work tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice. As a licensed firearm holder, I fully cooperated with the police, surrendered my firearm for ballistic testing, and made myself available for any clarifications," Wainaina said.
He firmly denied any involvement in the advocate's killing, noting that investigators found no evidence linking him to the crime in any way.
"I wish to make it abundantly clear that I had no role whatsoever in this heinous act. After due process, the authorities found no evidence linking me to the matter, and I was subsequently released," said Wainaina.
Difficult and distressing
He also described his ordeal as difficult and distressing, while acknowledging that his experience cannot compare to the immense grief borne by Mbobu’s family, friends, and colleagues.
"Every Kenyan deserves justice, fairness, and security, for these are the foundations of a free and stable society. It is in this spirit that I trust our institutions to pursue the truth with diligence and to deliver justice for the late Advocate Mbobu and his family," said Wainaina.
In the investigation into the lawyer's murder, three people—including Wainaina—were arrested. Mbobu was shot dead along Magadi Road on Tuesday.
The three individuals, first questioned on Thursday, were held at various police stations in Nairobi. Wainaina was reportedly among those who had lunch with the deceased on the day he was shot.
The other two, reportedly close friends of the late advocate who were present during the same lunch-hour meeting, are being held separately at Kilimani and Capitol Hill police stations.
Person of interest
Wainaina’s lawyer confirmed his client’s arrest, stating that he was picked as a person of interest. After questioning, Wainaina was taken to Kileleshwa Police Station before being rushed to a hospital for treatment.
"There is an active investigation that is going on, and it's not only him. We have been told it is a homicide investigation, but we don't know which one," said Wainaina's lawyer, Maulid Musa.
Investigators have not disclosed the exact role of the three suspects, but believe they could be key in tracing the gunman and the motorcycle rider who fled the scene.
Musa also confirmed that some cash was recovered during Wainaina’s arrest. "He was arrested at his home, but I cannot confirm the amount, but I can say it is his legitimate money," he noted.
Mounting public pressure
The ongoing investigation comes amid mounting public pressure and growing concern within the legal community.
On Friday, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) submitted a formal petition to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, calling for a swift, transparent, and thorough probe into Mbobu’s murder.
"We want periodic updates, we want to see the culprits in court," said LSK President Faith Odhiambo.
Senior Counsel Philip Murgor added, "The police in this republic have a lot of resources and can bring the perpetrators in a short time."
In a peaceful protest starting at Milimani Law Courts, hundreds of lawyers marched through Nairobi, stopping at Town House—where the late Mbobu’s office was located—for prayers and a moment of silence in his honour.
"This killing brings into question several things. Recently, a Member of Parliament was killed. It raises questions on how gun control is managed in our country," said Odhiambo.
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