National Liberation Party (NLP) leader Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli has strongly condemned the manner in which Kitui-based blogger and digital journalist Emmanuel Maleve was arrested and driven out of Kitui under unclear circumstances—allegedly linked to his recent reporting on corruption claims involving senior leaders.
Dr. Muli, speaking from Kitui South where he is leading a nationwide NLP membership recruitment drive, called on police authorities to immediately clarify the journalist’s status and whereabouts. His remarks come amid growing public concern after Maleve was reportedly abducted by individuals suspected to be law enforcement officers, with Kitui Central Police Station denying involvement and refusing to register a complaint from Maleve’s associates.
“We are giving the government and the National Police Service 24 hours to issue a statement on Emmanuel Maleve’s whereabouts and legal status. Silencing voices through force or intimidation belongs to a bygone era,” Dr. Muli asserted.
Speculation is mounting that Maleve’s arrest may be connected to his recent social media series labeling Kitui South MP Dr. Rachel Nyamai as the “Queen of Corruption,” a bold tag that has sparked both outrage and support across the political divide. While the MP has not commented publicly, her allies have dismissed the blogger’s claims as political propaganda.
Reliable sources have told Channel 15 News that Maleve has since been booked at Muthaiga Police Station in Nairobi and is expected to appear at the Milimani Law Courts on Friday. However, the charges he may face remain unclear.
Dr. Muli warned that using state machinery to target journalists sets a dangerous precedent. “We will not sit back as the rights of citizens are trampled in broad daylight. Today it’s Maleve—tomorrow it could be any whistleblower,” he added.
The Media Council of Kenya and various human rights groups are expected to issue statements as the situation unfolds.
