Speaking at a Community Engagement Forum in Namagara, Malava, on November 22, 2025, he demanded clarity on what transpired during Matiang’i’s tenure at the Interior Ministry.
He emphasized that political positions should not shield officials from accountability and urged that the circumstances surrounding the bodies recovered from River Yala be fully explained to Kenyans.
Mudavadi highlighted that citizens are still awaiting answers and called for transparent disclosure of past actions.
Matiang’i has defended his record, stating that all investigations were followed up during his term.
In a July 2025 TV interview, he explained that the River Yala case was escalated to then-Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai and remained open when he left office.
He added that police needed families to positively identify the bodies to determine the cause of death and expressed readiness to testify in a public inquiry if convened.
The case attracted national attention after over 30 bodies were recovered from the river, raising concerns about accountability in high-profile investigations.
Mudavadi also warned Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya against political statements or actions that could backfire ahead of the 2027 elections.
He used the analogy of “throwing stones in a house of glass” to caution Natembeya about careless political maneuvers.
Mudavadi stressed that young leaders are prepared to contest positions, signaling that influence cannot be assumed.
His remarks reflect the intertwining of governance accountability and political strategy in western Kenya.
As the country approaches the 2027 elections, scrutiny of leaders’ past actions and political positioning is intensifying.
Mudavadi’s statements underscore the expectation that officials must answer unresolved questions while navigating electoral dynamics.
The focus on transparency, justice, and strategic planning highlights the stakes for political actors in the region.
Citizens continue to demand clarity on unresolved cases like River Yala, reinforcing the importance of accountability in Kenyan politics.
