Fred Okango: Teargas at Linda Mwananchi rallies do not come from police

Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has accused Mithika Linturi, a former area Senator, of plotting to disrupt a Linda Mwananchi rally set to take place in the region on August 30, 2026. In a statement shared on her social media on August 29, 2026, Mwangaza alleged that Linturi was organizing youths to intimidate leaders and supporters of the movement.

She shared a video on social media showing a group of youths in DCP-branded caps chanting, "No Linturi, no Linda Mwananchi." Mwangaza, who is a principal of Linda Mwananchi, stated that she had a responsibility to attend the movement's activities and did not require permission from Linturi, the DCP, or anyone else. She questioned Linturi's authority to sanction Linda Mwananchi activities and claimed he was not the "gatekeeper of Igembe."

Mwangaza accused Linturi of using young people to intimidate political opponents, describing it as "goonism." She called on the National Police Service and security leaders in Meru to take the threats seriously and ensure the safety of Linda Mwananchi leaders, supporters, and public attendees at the rally. Mwangaza challenged Linturi to present his vision for the Meru governorship instead of resorting to intimidation, asserting that past intimidation would not stop her from attending the rally.

She declared her determination to be present in Igembe, stating she was not a coward and would not be deterred by threats.