Raphael Tuju Reported Missing as Car Found Abandoned in Karen

Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has been reported missing after failing to attend a scheduled radio interview on Saturday, 22 March. 

His family confirmed they have been unable to reach him since. His lawyer, Paul Nyamodi, said Tuju’s vehicle was later found abandoned on Miotoni Lane in Karen on Saturday night. The discovery was reported to Tuju’s son by the Officer Commanding Station at Karen Police Station. A missing persons report has been filed, and Tuju’s driver, Steve Mwanga, is also missing.

The disappearance follows an escalating dispute over Tuju’s property in Karen. Days earlier, police officers took control of his Dari Park premises during a pre-dawn operation, removing private security personnel and securing the compound. 

Tuju said that the action was carried out without a court order and disrupted several businesses operating at the site. He also alleged that the incident was linked to pressure connected to his political stance.

Tuju has been involved in a prolonged legal dispute with the East African Development Bank over a loan of Sh2.2 billion, placing his assets at risk of auction. In recent weeks, he sought to protect his property and personal safety, including writing to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. 

The letter, sent three days before his disappearance, raised concerns about threats to his security and investments. The former Rarieda MP has previously described his long association with Karen, noting that he acquired land in the area more than 40 years ago. He has said he made significant personal sacrifices at the time, including selling his car to finance the purchase.