Police Officers Thwart Okiya Omtatah's Efforts To File Death Threat Report Against William Ruto

• Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah is determined to file a death threat report against President William Ruto
• The senator believes Ruto's remarks that the sword he has is not for cutting vegetables but slicing those opposing his administration were directed at him
• Police officers at Nyanchwa Police Station declined to record the senator's statement on unclear legal grounds

Michael Ollinga is a journalist at TUKO.co.ke with over 10 years of experience covering courts and crimes, special reports, and current affairs in Kenya.

Police officers in Kisii county have thwarted Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah's efforts to report what he described as death threats being issued by President William Ruto.

Okiya Omtatah takes on William Ruto

The senator was determined to file a report and record a statement against Ruto on the grounds that the president had issued remarks he deemed threatening to his life during a recent public rally.

According to Citizen TV, officers at Nyanchwa Police Station turned away the legislator on Tuesday, December 19.

The senator had obtained an OB number at Mosocho Police Station in Kitutu Chache and was referred to Nyanchwa.

The head of state ignited divided opinions among Kenyans by saying he would use the sword he was given while ascending to power to slice those who stood in his way towards delivering Kenya Kwanza pledges to Kenyans.

Sword isn't for cutting vegetables

Ruto made the remarks on Saturday, December 16, during a church fundraiser event at Cardinal Otunga High School in Mosocho. Omtatah said the president singled out individuals opposing the Housing Levy as his leading detractors.

"During his speech, the president censured those opposing the Finance Act ruling that termed the housing levy unconstitutional. He was explicit that he would deal with them with the sword that he was given. The threat was directed to me for championing against the housing levy, "Omtatah argued.

The legislator, known to be a stickler for the constitution, argued that the remarks by Ruto indicating that the sword he received as president was not for cutting vegetables but for dealing with crooks opposing his administration were not only threatening but also demeaning.

Kisii police officers stop Okiya Omtatah

Omtatah insisted that police officers' frustration would not stop him from ensuring his report was on record.

He reiterated that he must file the complaint as provided for by law and ensure Ruto's sentiments are probed.

"I met an OCPD who wants to bully me because he does not respect the constitution. He refused to record my statement. He believes he understands the law better than everyone else. I will lawfully ensure this statement is on record," stated Omtatah.

"Even if I cannot take Ruto to court now, he will one day not be the president. There is a time when he will leave the seat, and we'll challenge him according to the law," Omtatah added.

Ruto's remarks were hinged on the ceremonial sword his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, handed him.

Kenyans across the political divide interpreted the remarks differently, stirring a political debate.