Pulse logo
Pulse Region

Detectives pounce on vocal MP after holding private meeting with MCA

MP accused of dangerous crime
MP being probed for incitement
MP being probed for incitement

Kuresoi South legislator Joseph Tanui and Nakuru Deputy Speaker Samuel Kipkemoi Tonui are being probed for incitement.

According to reports by the police, the two leaders were questioned over claims of inciting their community members in Njoro constituency against a neighbouring community.

Police launched investigations after members of one community complained of a meeting the duo held with local leaders at the Nakuru showground three weeks ago.

Confirming the probe, County Criminal Investigations Officer Joseph Koini said the duo were accused of threatening officials from the Ogiek Peoples' Development Programme (OPDP).

Recommended For You
Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tanui

Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tanui

Mau Forest dispute

The Ogiek claimed the leaders had threatened them because of the community's push to be issued with a communal land title deed for the Mau Forest complex.

Mr Koini said police were reviewing statements made by the MP and the deputy speaker although the Ogiek did not give more details on what the threats entailed.

Speaking on the probe, Mr Tanui said: "The issues we were discussing with leaders of people allocated land in the forest was never meant to incite any community against another."

Nakuru Deputy Speaker Samuel Kipkemoi Tonui

Nakuru Deputy Speaker Samuel Kipkemoi Tonui

Importance of Mau Forest

The Mau Forest complex is the largest remaining indigenous forest in Kenya and it covers over 400,000 hectares.

Notably, the forest is the largest of the country's five water towers as well as the largest closed-canopy forest ecosystem.

The complex forms part of the upper water catchment area and it is the catchment source for Lake Victoria and the White Nile.

The original inhabitants of the forest, the Ogiek, who have lived there for hundreds of years - continue to call the complex their home.

Subscribe to receive daily news updates.