NAIROBI, Kenya — Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has alleged that there is a coordinated political attempt to profile the Mt Kenya region following recent protests and incidents of violence and property destruction.
In a statement, Thang’wa claimed that some leaders are being mobilised to publicly distance themselves from their communities, arguing that a “script” was emerging in how the incidents were being politically framed.
He pointed to a series of recent events, including the death of a woman identified as Wanjiku, the burning of a vehicle in Githurai, and the destruction of property during protests in Naivasha, saying they raise unanswered questions.
Allegations of political framing
Thang’wa suggested that the incidents were being used to advance a political narrative targeting Mt Kenya residents.
He alleged that certain events were being “conveniently” linked to political or ethnic identities in a way that could influence public perception.
According to him, the emerging narrative risks portraying the region as violent, a characterization he strongly rejected.
Questions over protest-related incidents
The senator cited the Githurai incident, where a vehicle was torched during protests, saying conflicting accounts of what happened have fueled public debate.
He also referenced claims circulating online about the circumstances surrounding the incident, including alleged political symbols found in the vehicle, though these accounts remain unverified by authorities.
Thang’wa further mentioned reports of a truck belonging to a Member of Parliament allegedly being torched in Naivasha during the protests.
Call for accountability
The senator urged senior government officials, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and other leaders, to publicly clarify the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
He said transparency was necessary to prevent speculation and rising political tension.
Thang’wa also called for clarity on the death of a woman identified in public discussions as “Wanjiku,” saying her case had generated significant public concern.
Rising political temperature
The remarks come amid heightened political tensions linked to recent protests and sporadic incidents of violence and destruction of property in parts of the country.
Security agencies have been investigating cases of arson, theft, and attacks on public and private property during the demonstrations.
Authorities have previously warned against the spread of misinformation that could inflame ethnic or political divisions.
Call for calm
Thang’wa maintained that residents of Mt Kenya would not be intimidated or politically profiled, insisting that the region remains peaceful and tolerant.
He urged leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead allow investigations to establish the facts surrounding the recent incidents.
Police investigations into the protest-related violence and destruction are ongoing.
