Investigation Launched into Disappearance of Former Kenyan Foreign Minister

Mon Mar 23 2026 12:47:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Kenyan police are investigating the alleged abduction of former Foreign Minister Raphael Tuju, who went missing along with his driver while heading to a radio interview.

The disappearance of Raphael Tuju, a former Foreign Minister of Kenya, has raised concerns about potential abduction amid his ongoing legal troubles regarding his properties. His family reported him missing when he failed to reach a scheduled radio interview. The police discovered his abandoned vehicle and have launched an investigation into his whereabouts while urging the public for assistance.

Kenyan police are investigating the reported disappearance of former Foreign Minister Raphael Tuju, amid claims he may have been abducted.

According to Tuju's family, the ex-minister and his driver went missing as they were on their way to an evening radio interview on Saturday.

Police said his vehicle was found abandoned with its hazard lights on along a road in Karen, an upmarket suburb of the capital, Nairobi. They stated they could not reach him as his phone was switched off.

The former minister, who has served in various high-level government roles, has been embroiled in a long-running legal battle contesting the auction and takeover of his properties in Nairobi due to an unsettled bank loan.

He recently alleged that dozens of police officers raided his property in Karen, expelled his staff and security guards, and took control of the business premises.

Tuju claims that powerful officials are behind attempts to seize his property. The government has not commented on these allegations.

The legal dispute involves lenders seeking to recover debts exceeding $15 million tied to properties owned by Tuju's company, Dari Limited. He has lodged multiple unsuccessful legal challenges against the auction and recently obtained orders to bar the transfer of the property until his latest application is heard.

On Sunday, Tuju's lawyer Paul Nyamodi informed local media that the former minister had filed a police report prior to his disappearance, alleging that he had been followed by an unmarked vehicle.

Authorities have stated a specialized team is managing the investigation and collaborating with other government agencies to establish his whereabouts. They have encouraged the public to report any information that could assist in tracing the former minister.

Police also emphasized the importance of cooperation from Tuju's family, noting that they had denied investigators access to his residence. We urge full cooperation from all parties, including unrestricted access to relevant locations and prompt provision of information, for a swift and thorough resolution, stated police in a recent message.

The disappearance of Tuju has prompted allegations from prominent opposition figures, speculating that he may have been kidnapped. Governor James Orengo alleged that Tuju had been kidnapped, expressing hope for his safety.

Lawmaker Otiende Amollo stressed the importance of urgent action from the authorities, advocating for their responsibility in protecting the influential former minister amid concerns over his safety.