January 18: Day that completely changed course of life for two Nakuru families

For the families of Richard Otieno and Brian Odhiambo, January 18 will forever remain etched in their memories—no matter how much they may wish to forget it.

On the night of January 18, transitioning into January 19, residents of Molo woke up to the heart breaking news of the murder of one of the most prominent figures in their community: Richard Otieno, affectionately known as the “Molo President.”

Protests erupted in Elburgon on January 19, following the news of his death. The residents condemned the heinous act and demanded justice for the slain activist.

Otieno had been an outspoken critic of the government, having been accused of being involved in the incident at Molo Mp Kuria Kimani's house.

The case went to court but was later dismissed.

Afterward, the late activist continued to receive threats, which he often shared with his close friends via social media.

At one point, he was attacked by two individuals—Geoffrey Ndung'u Willy and John Ndegwa Wanjiku—who were charged with assault and causing bodily harm.

They were placed on a one-year probation, as outlined in an affidavit filed by the investigating officer in court regarding the murder of Richard Otieno.

These two individuals are now among five suspects in police custody for the murder of Richard Otieno.

On Monday, Nakuru Principal Magistrate Kipkurui Kibelion granted police permission to detain the five suspects at Kaptembwo Police Station while investigations continue.

The murder occurred in the early hours of the night, shortly after Richard Otieno had watched an English Premier League match.

Earlier that same day, around 10 a.m., Brian Odhiambo's mother, witnessed her son's arrest by individuals in Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) uniforms, who then forcibly bundled him into their car.

Mtaa Wangu has provided an extensive chronological account of events following Brian Odhiambo's arrest, up to the point where his case was dismissed in court after his disappearance.

In the weeks following these incidents, Civil Society Organizations, Nakuru leaders, and even opinion shapers have come forward to condemn the actions, labelling them as political intolerance, politically charged violence, abductions, and high crime rates.

All are demanding justice for the two men, both in their early thirties.

These events have brought Nakuru into the broader national conversation about abductions and the current political climate, which is in turmoil.

For Brian Odhiambo's family, the situation remains desperate and unsettling, as his whereabouts are still unknown.

Richard Otieno, on the other hand, was laid to rest at his parents’ home in Siaya County, though his family continues to yearn for justice in the wake of his murder.

As Nakuru grapples with the darkness of these twin tragedies, the county finds itself at a crossroads. Will it forever be defined by the shadow of these events, or can it rebuild a sense of safety, accountability, and hope for its citizens?

Only time will tell whether the dark cloud that has descended on Nakuru will lift, or if these tragedies will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the county's history.