Gachagua Demands Immediate Action Over Missing Mandera Politician

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has voiced concern over the disappearance of Mohamed Ismail popularly known as "China", whose whereabouts remain unknown following reports that he went missing in Nairobi's Kariokor area on April 22, 2026.

In a statement issued on Friday, Gachagua described the situation as deeply troubling and called for urgent action to establish the circumstances surrounding Ismail's disappearance.

He said the incident had left the family devastated and intensified public concern over recent reports of forced disappearances in different parts of the country.

Mohamed Ismail is a familiar figure in political circles particularly among residents of Eastleigh and Mandera County.

Born and educated in Mandera, he built his political profile over the years and contested the Eastleigh North Ward Member of County Assembly seat during both the 2017 and 2022 General Elections.

Although he did not secure victory in either election, his campaigns earned him recognition as an accessible and grassroots oriented leader who maintained strong connections with residents and local leaders.

Supporters often described him as a people centred politician who remained engaged with community issues beyond election periods.

Gachagua noted that Ismail's disappearance had caused immense anguish to his relatives, friends, supporters and members of the wider community who continue to wait anxiously for information regarding his whereabouts.

The family needs peace and their son back, Gachagua said while insisting that the country must uphold the principles of justice, accountability and respect for human rights.

He further argued that Kenya is governed by the rule of law and should not tolerate circumstances in which citizens disappear without explanation.

According to him, every Kenyan deserves protection under the law regardless of their political affiliation, social status or background.

The former Deputy President also linked the incident to growing concerns over what critics describe as a resurgence of enforced disappearances in recent weeks with human rights groups and political leaders increasingly demanding greater transparency from investigative agencies.

Gachagua joined Mohamed Ismail's family in calling for truth and accountability, urging relevant authorities to move with speed in investigating the case and updating the public on any developments.

As the search for answers continues, family members and supporters remain hopeful that Ismail will be found safe and reunited with his loved ones while calls for justice continue to grow across the country.