Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has resurfaced, a day after he was reported missing, revealing that he went into hiding over fears for his safety.
Tuju, who had been reported missing on Sunday, reappeared and addressed the press, explaining the circumstances that led to his sudden disappearance. He claimed that he had been trailed by suspicious vehicles over two consecutive days, prompting him to take drastic action to evade what he believed to be a serious threat.
According to Tuju, the incident began on Friday evening when he noticed a vehicle following him. Concerned for his safety, he drove to Karen Police Station to report the matter. However, the situation escalated the following day when the same vehicle allegedly resumed trailing him as he headed for a scheduled radio interview.
He stated that the vehicle, which he described as a Land Cruiser, did not have number plates, raising further alarm. Tuju said the experience reminded him of a previous incident where several vehicles, some without number plates, had approached his residence, heightening his suspicion.
While driving with his aide, Tuju said he used his knowledge of the Karen area to evade the suspected followers. He diverted onto Nandi Road, where he managed to lose the vehicle before abandoning his car. The vehicle was later found by authorities, sparking public concern over his whereabouts.
Fearing for his life, Tuju said he opted not to seek refuge at a police station, citing concerns that those trailing him could be linked to security agencies. Instead, he sought shelter at a private residence near the Nairobi–Kiambu border, where he remained in hiding.
He expressed gratitude to the family that hosted him, noting that they offered him safety without hesitation. Tuju also acknowledged the concern shown by Kenyans during the period he was missing, saying the incident had left his family and supporters deeply shaken.
The former Jubilee Secretary-General described the experience as traumatic, adding that it highlights broader concerns about personal safety. He said he considers himself fortunate, noting that others in similar situations may not be as lucky.
His reappearance brings to a close a tense period that had drawn national attention, following earlier reports of his disappearance and the discovery of his abandoned vehicle in Karen.
Authorities are yet to issue further details on the matter as questions linger over the alleged surveillance and circumstances surrounding the incident.
