Defenders Coalition condemns the murder of Daniel “Sniper” Muthiani

Sunday, 31 December 2023 – Nairobi

The Defenders Coalition joins Kenyans in condemning the gruesome murder of political commentator and blogger Daniel “Sniper” Muthiani.

‘Sniper’s’ murder that sent shockwaves across the country paints the true picture of the situation of many advocates of good governance at the grassroot level: they are either harassed, surveilled, threatened, illegally arrested and detained, tortured and/or killed.

Trends point at a strong will by powerful political elites to silence all dissenting voices, whether by hook or crook, despite lawful guarantee of the freedom of speech and expression by Article 33 of the constitution of Kenya 2010.
As we condemn this barbaric killing of a young father who only wanted the best for Meru County, we call on the national government and the 47 county governments to create an enabling environment for human rights advocates, community bloggers, journalists, and social justice champions to freely express their views.

The work of these individuals and groups is pivotal in realising a dignified life for all Kenyans and thus need our support and not vilification. We call on these governments to create avenues for round table discussions and implementation of resolutions as opposed to creating criminal squads that harass, intimidate and squeeze air out of patriotic individuals.

We equally call on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to independently and professional investigate and prosecute this crime that has not only robbed Meru County a progressive comrade but also ‘Sniper’s’ children of their right to fatherly love. The killers must be brought to book.

As we usher in the new year, let us remind ourselves once gains that NO ONE DESERVES TO LOSE THEIR LIVES FOR EXPRESSING DIVERGENT VIEWS IN ANY DISCOURSE.