Though he refused to give details, the late Senior Counsel insisted to Obala the story would not only surprise Kenyans, but could have major consequences.
That was on March 28 after Mutula was sworn in as Senator
Mutula, a straight-talking politician and astute lawyer, told Obala a month before he died that he would reveal to her the secret he bore ‘with time’, but sadly he died before they could meet again.
On that March 28, after being sworn-in as Senator for Makueni, he said, during a short interview, that he had information that if published in the media, would “cause panic and mayhem”.
Said Obala: “A jovial Kilonzo emerged from the Senate and we had a brief encounter at the Senator’s lounge. It was on Thursday afternoon on March 28, when I engaged him in an interview to get to understand the Senate’s role,’’ reports Obala.
“From the outset, he appeared happy, energetic and raring to go, dressed in a brown suit. We exchanged pleasantries, and I began by congratulating him on his election as Senator for Makueni.”
Suddenly diverted
Obala goes on: “He began outlining the responsibilities of Senators and how they will take the National Government to task over devolution. He then said their role was to be a link between County Governments and National Government.”
Mutula was explaining how they intend to take on the National Government over the implementation of the Devolution, “when he suddenly diverted and stated that there is a lot going on that Kenyans need to know,’’ Obala went on.
Mutula told her that it is no secret that the National Government is trying to frustrate the implementation of Devolved Government. ”
It was at this juncture that his tone changed, he looked serious and stated; “I have information that if I disclose to you Monday, your papers will be burnt the next minute.”
The statement came as a surprise, but when Obala pressed him, because she was curious to know more, and even offered not to name him in the story, Kilonzo retorted: “No, No, No.”
She pleaded with him, saying, “Please Mheshimiwa (Honourable), I will use an anonymous source,” he declined.
When she insisted he reiterated as they walked down the stairs: “Save the company (Standard Group Limited) and yourself. I promise to give you the information at the right time.”
Those were Mutula’s last words to the journalist as he walked away and, unfortunately, that is where the big story that never came to life ended.
Kenyans must worry, what is the secret, what dossier was Mutula talking about? If indeed it could shake Kenyans and burn down Standard Group Limited as he said then obviously that involves powerful people/institution that if rattled can not hesitate to bite!