NAIROBI, Kenya – The Linda Mwananchi movement has called for investigations into two reported attacks involving former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, while challenging the Council of Governors to speak out over what it describes as intimidation of political leaders.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 21, the movement condemned an incident at Githongo Market in Central Imenti, where Mwangaza’s team reportedly came under attack while attempting to attend Mashujaa Day celebrations on Tuesday.
The statement, signed by Head of Communication Pauline Njoroge, said vehicles belonging to Mwangaza’s team were damaged, equipment was stolen and several staff members were injured.
The incident has also drawn media attention, with reports indicating that Mwangaza’s entourage encountered violence as it approached the celebrations venue.
Movement Cites Earlier Incident in Igembe
Linda Mwananchi said the Githongo confrontation was particularly concerning because Mwangaza had reported another attack at Gituine Village in Igembe Central on Monday.
Earlier reports also documented allegations by Mwangaza and her husband, Murega Baichu, that a gathering in the area was disrupted and musical and public-address equipment stolen. The circumstances surrounding the incidents and the identities of those responsible require investigation.
The movement said Mwangaza had been invited to the Mashujaa Day celebrations by the County Commissioner and should have been able to attend the public event without fear of violence or intimidation.
It argued that national celebrations should remain open to Kenyans irrespective of their political affiliations.
Council of Governors Put on the Spot
The statement also criticised the Council of Governors for what Linda Mwananchi described as its silence over alleged threats against Mwangaza and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
The movement urged the council to defend the safety and dignity of both serving and former governors, regardless of their political affiliations.
Its criticism places the council under pressure to clarify its position on reported attacks and intimidation involving political leaders, although the statement did not cite a specific response from the council.
Calls for Impartial Investigations
Linda Mwananchi further alleged that organised groups were being used to intimidate opposition leaders and their supporters, calling for the practice to end.
It demanded prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into the Githongo incident and the earlier reports from Igembe Central, insisting that anyone found responsible should face the law.
The allegations of politically sponsored violence remain claims made by the movement and Mwangaza’s camp; responsibility for the incidents should be established through evidence and an impartial investigation.
The latest developments have renewed attention on political tensions in Meru, where clashes between groups supporting Mwangaza and those associated with Governor Isaac Mutuma were reported during the Mashujaa Day celebrations.
