The Senate Committee on National Security has ordered the arrest of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika after she failed to appear before lawmakers several times. Senators made the decision during a meeting held on June 22 at Parliament Buildings.
Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, who chairs the committee, led the session. Members resolved to compel the governor's attendance after repeated absences during an ongoing inquiry.
Inquiry Linked to Missing Fisherman
The committee is investigating a petition over the alleged disappearance of Brian Odhiambo near Lake Nakuru National Park. Senators had invited Kihika to provide submissions on the matter but she did not attend the proceedings.
Committee members said they had issued invitations and a formal summons without success. The lawmakers now want the governor brought before the committee to answer questions related to the petition.
“Governor Kihika is among key stakeholders expected to provide submissions in the Committee’s consideration of a Petition concerning the alleged forced disappearances of young fishermen at Lake Nakuru National Park,” the committee stated.
Brian Odhiambo Case Sparks Concern
The case dates back to January 2025 when Kenya Wildlife Service rangers arrested Brian Odhiambo near Lake Nakuru National Park. Rangers accused him of illegal fishing in the protected area.
Witnesses claimed officers assaulted him before placing him inside a KWS vehicle. KWS later said he escaped, but investigators reportedly found no official records documenting either an arrest or escape.
The matter sparked protests in Nakuru and attracted national attention. Authorities later charged six KWS officers in connection with the alleged abduction.
Senators Reject Fish Report
The committee also rejected a fish sampling report presented by the Kenya Fisheries Service. Petitioners argued that officials conducted the exercise without involving all parties as earlier directed by senators.
Lawmakers ordered a fresh sampling exercise. The new process will include committee members, petitioners, and other stakeholders to improve transparency and credibility.
Lake Nakuru Under Fresh Scrutiny
Lake Nakuru has remained under public scrutiny due to concerns about both missing fishermen and fish safety. Government agencies recently warned that fish from the lake may pose health risks.
Tests by the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute reportedly detected heavy metals and other contaminants in sampled fish. The findings raised concerns among residents who depend on fishing activities around the lake.
More Officials Summoned
The committee has also summoned officials from the Ministries of Tourism and Wildlife, Agriculture, and Interior. Senators want the agencies to address unresolved issues before they finalize their report.
The latest move increases pressure on Governor Kihika as lawmakers push to conclude investigations into the disappearance case and other concerns surrounding Lake Nakuru.
