Residents of Elburgon in Nakuru County staged protests on Sunday, January 19, following the shocking murder of Richard Raymond Otieno, a prominent youth leader and vocal government critic, widely known as the “Molo President.”
Otieno’s lifeless body was discovered outside the gate of his rented apartment in Molo, bearing injuries inflicted by an axe. The tragic incident, reportedly carried out by unknown assailants, has left the community in outrage.
Close associates revealed that Otieno had received death threats in the days leading up to the attack. Police have since launched an investigation into the murder.
In a dramatic response, enraged residents stormed the local mortuary where Otieno’s body had been taken. They removed the body and paraded it through the streets in protest, demanding justice for their slain leader. Police observed the demonstrations from a distance.
Molo MP Kuria Kimani expressed deep sorrow over Otieno’s death, describing him as a trailblazer and dedicated community mobilizer.
“This morning, we woke up to the devastating news of the untimely death of Richard Raymond. Reports indicate that he was attacked under mysterious circumstances last night, and his body was found outside his rented apartment,” Kimani stated.
Although the exact circumstances of the murder remain unclear, Kimani noted that it is believed Otieno was attacked while heading home.
“I have known Raymond throughout my political career. He was a true champion for youth, women, and the underprivileged in our society. His contributions to the social and political welfare of Molo and Nakuru County were profound and transformative,” the MP added.
Kimani praised Otieno’s bravery and unwavering commitment to the community, lamenting the loss as a blow to Molo’s youth and the larger constituency.
The MP assured the public that he has engaged regional and county security teams, including the Rift Valley Regional Criminal Investigations Officer, to expedite investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“I urge residents to remain calm and allow the investigative bodies time to conduct thorough investigations. Justice will prevail for Richard Raymond Otieno,” he said.